[barx1963 (Malcolm)]

OK everyone, I have had my first crack at an image. Really just more about learning the camera and photoshop a bit while I am saving for a better imaging setup.

Thought I would have a go at the Jewell Box as I had Beta Crucis in the field to assist with focusing and sentimental reasons as it was the first NGC object I ever found by myself!

Taken with an unmodified Canon 400d, mounted on Meade etx70 at prime focus. stack of 5 second exposure at ISO 1600. Short exposures as scope is in alt az mode. I brought out a bit of red, hopefully not to much, as there are afew nice red stars around the area. I really like the little jewell just above Beta Crucis.

I could be wring but the little blue patch at the very top of the image "may" be a planetary neb. Anyone know? It is labelled as P302.2+2.5 in Uranometria.