I have always wondered why the majority of images of this region are done with monochrome narrowband. I found out the hard way when attempting to put together this image.
From inner Brisbane, during a quarter phase moon last month, I spent 3 nights capturing 15 hours of 5-minute subs with my Samyang 135/2, ASI294MC Pro and Optolong L-Enhance filter. On the second night I realised my stars weren't as sharp as they needed to be, so I took a set of f/5.6 stars (This time with just a UV/IR just after astronomical dusk before the moon come up).
Putting together all this was a challenge. Blue contrast was a considerable challenge, and then adding in different stars was considerably harder, taking up about 12 real hours of editing time... I think I managed to come up with a presentable image, but it does not pass the 'zoom-in test' that a keen, experienced eye might judge it with.
I liked the challenge, but I'm looking forward to an easier target...
https://www.astrobin.com/full/2il39w/0/
