The previous image of M42 consisted of 20 X 2 minute exposures and 10 X 15 second exposures. I have added 6 X 10 minute exposures to this image captured a few nights later. Thank God for Registar, it does a wonderful job of piecing together diferent size and orientated images.
Thanks for looking.
Images captured with QHY8 and QHY8Pro at -20 degrees. Image manipulated in PS CS3 with some selective smoothing and sharpening.
Highlights what I was saying to the guys on the weekend. With the better imaging techniques these days it looks like M42 and the running man are one ds object (like a tube) through the dust with the dark lane between them like a basket handle over the top. Only difference is the new stars are in front of the end at the running man causing the mostly reflection nebulosity (older stars maybe) while the new stars (trap) are inside the tube at the M42 end.
I read too much into it I know but shows definate 3D structure.
Now "THAT" is an image of the Orion Nebula, dynamic colour and great detail and well processed, the core is handled very well mate - very nice.
It does look a little mottled/noisey overall though..? I know coming from Mr "a little noise is good" but in this case maybe just a tad too much..?
Great stuff Doug.
Mike
Yes it is a bit noisy. I think it needs a concerted effort to image with lots more 10 to 15 minute images. Not really enough at this stage and all captured when it is quite low. I had to use quite a bit of blur to make it presentable . I will try when it's a bit higher or when I'mnot working so can stay up all night.
Thanks Mike.
Ah that looks better than the original (I too found the original a wee bit too Red for me). Tonnes of data there, very very deep image of M42. That's a nice work of art Doug. Be proud - print and hang on wall. It's a keeper
The great thing about posting images here is when some feedback comes that can improve the image you can always do a repro (Sidonio ) and repost the new/better image.
After reading Mikes post and taking a long hard look at the image I made an attempt to reuce or at least manage the noise a little and I hink it is quite an improvement.
That's a rippa image Doug!! . Well done! IMO the middle version you did was the best in terms of colour and depth. Very vibrant colour - just how I think M42 should be rendered - detail is good and you've handled the dynamic range well. I wouldn't stress too much over the noise - just be happy with the very strikng image you've produced!
I wouldn't mind seeing the original h/res version before it was crunched to upload here. 
coming from Mr "a little noise is good" but in this case maybe just a tad too much..?
