Inspired by the heroic efforts of many here on the IIS forums (and particularly Rolf and Mike with their amazing collaborative effort on this target), I present here my first major project exceeding 20 hours. All captured with a humble DSLR and small 130mm f5 newtonian on a HEQ5 mount from my home in Strathalbyn SA (about 55km south-east of Adelaide).
Capture details:
Camera: modded Canon 1000D (Astrodon UVIR filter, no cooling)
Scope: 130mm f5 newtonian reflector
Mount: HEQ5 on the stock tripod
Exposure: 439 x 3min subs @ ISO1600 (just under 22 hours) across 7 nights in early March 2014. Ambient temps ranging from 12-18C
Software: Sequence Generator Pro, Pixinsight 1.8
Processed with the intent to reveal the polar jets and extended Halo of this magnificent galaxy as well as the abundant galactic cirrus throughout this region of our skies.
High resolution here:
http://www.astrobin.com/full/82767/B/
What do you think? Has my attempt at "mega-data" been worth the effort? Any advice to improve the processing?
Comments and feedback appreciated