DSO AP with a Dob

[Stu Ward]

So these are single snaps, not sure what improvements i will get from stacking but i'll give it a go.

These are dirty i know, but im still impressed that imaging for pleasure can still be done with this bit of kit

Also heavily cropped so very grainy

But still gave me a lot of satisfaction seeing them appear on the camera

Oh i forgot, around 20 sec exp with an ISO of 800-1600 cant remember i messed around so much

Question for the experts,

Using a Dob, could i get improved results by taking 4x5 second exp than one 20 ?
If this is the case i may try to stack 40 or so

Stu

[stevejack]

Very cool. Can't comment on the technicals but I do want to ask - are you using any form of tracking mount or is this just through the dob? Looks great for single shots.
What camera did you use?

I was thinking that getting any kind of DSO on the dob would be next to impossible but these have impressed me... *off to do more research*

[Stu Ward]

Steve.
It's a 12 goto dob, so it's tracking the object in question but only in alt/az so real long exposures suffer from field rotation.
But I have found that if you goto an object and let the scope settle for 30 secs then photos can be taken.
Nothing like the big boys, but I'm keen to see just how far I can push it

Stu

[Tiotion]

That's impressive Stu. Good on ya! I've got nothing to add either, except that stacking should definately help there. Hey, what's there to lose?
Like Steve asked... What camera are you using?

[Stu Ward]

The dreaded Canon 550D Noise and all !!!

[stevejack]

Nice - I have a similar setup so you've inspired me to try and get some DSOs.
I look forward to seeing more, cheers mate.

[Stu Ward]

Yeah

I just saw your thread with your saturn pic, nice 14" goto

I see a little competition coming up cause i reckon your Saturn was better than mine !!!

Look forward to seeing your DSO's in the future
Let the battle commence !!!

Stu

[irwjager]

Very impressive Stu!

If you stack 4x5 seconds, the resulting image will suffer from slightly more noise (read noise) than one 20s exposure. However, your tracking will appear much better, your stars will be nice and round and the DSOs will appear sharper.
In your case I'd definitely go for it - see where the balance lies.

Best of all, you can take more than just 4x 5seconds; the more data the better. If you want to take things further, flat frames and dark frames will enhance your results even more. Great results are definitely possible with a 12" GOTO DOB!

Best of luck,

[scagman]

Nice work Stu,

Your satin looks very good too.
Please note I have no expierance to comment on the quality/technical details of any pics. They look good and are an inspiration.

I think you are selling youself short on your satin shot.(Hi Steve, I'm not getting into judging this comp. Your satin is very good too.)

[dannat]

I agree more shots will add moe noise, though it's winter now so the camera won't be heating like it will in summer, I think you might also give 10x2 sec a try