Ric: Thanks!
Roger: I had to do a fair amount of processing to bring the nebulosity out. Louie's version with his SXV-H9C was a stunner. He doesn't have to take darks or flats, the lucky bugger.
Paul: I'm not Narayan!
Although, Narayan did a stunning M45 earlier this year. That was the impetus for me to do this. The diffraction spikes were created with 30-pound fishing line. I don't think many people like them and I'm not entirely sure why. I can't get enough of them -- they look classical, divine and elegant! I'll pass on your hello to Louie as well.
Regards,
Humayun