As I was finishing imaging the Sculpter Galaxy. Orion was high enough above the horizon to start imaging. So I thought I would attempt to image M42, capturing the full range of dynamic range. This is actually my second attempt at imaging the Orion Nebula, so I was very excited browsing the sub frames as they came in. The central area is very bright needing short exposures to properly expose this area of the Nebula.
I captured a total of approx. 18 minutes worth of data which consisted of 2 x 5 min subs, 2 x 2 min 30 sec subs, 2 x 1 min 25 sec subs, 2 x 30 sec subs, 2 x 15 sec subs and 2 x 5 sec subs. I would've liked to capture more data but this was just a test to see what the result would be once processed.
I stacked all the images seperately in DSS with individual dark frames. Then, I put them all together in PS using layer masks. This is the first time combining images using this technique so it is quite new to me. Apart from that I am fairly happy with it but not overly.
I am hoping to have another go at the Orion Nebula tonight capturing more data and dynamic range.
Thanks for looking and any comments welcome.
