Cent A

[Peter.M]

Hi everyone,

An entire week of stairing down my cats eye tools because of the weather, and my obsession with killing the coma in my system left me eager to get out last night when it was clear and the moon was hiding.

One thing I have noticed with my scope is that the collimation changes considerably when simply changing the RA. I think this may be due to me not locking the screws in, so im going to attempt that today but if it still changes I will have to look into reinforcement. Anyone who has suggestions as to how I can eliminate focuser flexture would be greatly appreciated.

Anyway here is my image, I still have some gradient issues showing as the varied cast across the background.

[Big Dave]

Nice job, I love to image this object.
Dont lock the screws in too hard but!

[multiweb]

Very good result. :thumbsup:

[TheDecepticon]

Yep, what a great object! Nice job too!:)

This is one method of gradient removal in Photoshop. Dunno what processing software you are using.:shrug:

http://www.flemingastrophotography.com/gradients.html

[clive milne]

It would be beneficial to add a little more of the blue channel..... imho.

(Seems overly yellow)

[alpal]

Hi Peter,
I hope you don't mind ?-
I had a go at processing your wide field .jpg pic
Just a few changes & I tried to get rid of
the gradient & the slight green caste.
Also a little HDR toning.
Working on a fullsize tiff would have given better results.
The stars ended up a bit large & bright.
It's a very good hamburger galaxy.
I hope to do as well soon if this weather clears.

[TrevorW]

Needs some work but good result nether the less

[Paul Haese]

Good results which will no doubt improve markedly after sorting out you collimation slop.

[Peter.M]

Thanks guys, Im going to be spending tonight out under the stars too test my system after locking the mirror in place with the collimation locking bolts. I think the collimation change when moving the mounts RA was due to primary mirror slop.

I appreciate all of your feedback and my processing has a long way to go. Hopefully I will be posting my best image yet later tonight! I have high hopes.

[midnight]

Good luck!

A nice image to start with.

Darrin...

[Rigel003]

Very nice result Peter. I like the full frame especially.

[Ross G]

Nice photo Peter.


Ross.