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View Full Version here: : QHY8L Second Light - NGC5128, Centaurus A

cybereye
26-07-2011, 09:34 PM
Well I finally managed to get my act into gear and set up for my second light with my QHY8L. The target was Centaurus A, but I didn't have much time as it was heading down towards the roof.

Anyway, alignment was good and tracking was assisted using PHD Guiding. The resultant image is 15x3 minute subs with corresponding darks, flats, etc. This is definitely in need of more input - thanks "Number Five"...

However, I'm still very happy with the result, especially considering its only the second outing with the camera, although I think I may have pushed the processing a tad too much as some bigger stars have halos. Despite all this, I've attached the image for your perusal and comments.

Cheers,
Mario
cybereye
27-07-2011, 07:37 AM
I've just noticed on my screen at work that there is a bluish tinge in some parts of the image. Now that's annoying - I guess I need to re-calibrate my screen a home...
Mario
irwjager
27-07-2011, 08:17 AM
Hi Mario,

Looking really good!

Looks like the blueish patch could possibly be a Wipe artifact. When wiping noisy data, bump up the noise filter parameter somewhat, otherwise the noise can 'scare' the algorithm off from noisy areas.
And, yes, a calibrated screen will really help spotting these things! :)
cybereye
27-07-2011, 08:21 AM
Ivo, thanks for the advice. I've been playing around here at work (sshhh, don't tell the boss!) and have attached a newer version. Maybe I should go back to the start with the processing!!

Mario
Ross G
28-07-2011, 06:02 AM
Hi Mario,

A very nice photo.

You seem to have the QHY8L working well.

Ross.
cybereye
28-07-2011, 06:52 AM
Ross,

I'm very happy with the QHY8L and it is a marked improvement on my Pentax Km DSLR. It's very easy to use - I especially find focusing a breeze. I just need to work on getting decent flats as this is a real struggle for me at the moment (my skill rather than the camera).

Then I just need to sort out processing and then my screen calibration and then...:lol:

Cheers,
Mario
Osirisra
28-07-2011, 02:01 PM
Nice!

I'm jealous :P, been three months with mine and still nothing but cloud and rain :(