Processing

[LewisM]

Been fiddling some more with processing - merging multiple layers after extracting as much detail at various ranges/aspects etc.

Does this look OK for M20? There's a merge of 4 layers, Unsharp Mask, Custom, Noise Reduction, Brightness & Contrast, Curves, Colour Saturation, etc.


Looks fine on MY computer - your result may vary

[LewisM]

Or the .png

[blink138 (Pat)]

its m8 lewis....... i usually get them mixed up too!
nice though
pat

[LewisM]

Yeah, you are right.... I had the label sequence with file numbers all over the place in my records too... now using software to control camera so makes it easier

[Gem (Grant)]

What length and number of exposures are you using?

[LewisM]

20" @ ISO 1250. Usually 30 subs in total, set in DSS for 70% acceptance.

[LewisM]

And reprocessed in Star Tools - a simply BRILLIANT programme IMHO!

[stardust steve (Steve)]

I might have to check out this star tools.
You have done well in my opinion just to capture this beautiful image as i am finding out all of the necessary steps involved just to get to that level.

To me, i think you have lost some sharpness and detail in the repro. The stars look to be toned down which is probably good but i would like to see the detail which is present in the original, to be there in the repro.
Just don't ask me how

[LewisM]

Yeah, it shall be done with layers

StarTools takes away SO many fiddly steps found in other programs (I find MaxIM DL a NIGHTMARE of confusion). It is WELL worth the $60. I am usually a cheapskate, but the minute I saw what ST will do with their unlimited demo (you just cannot save the image with the demo) I paid the $60.

Reprocessing soon