Early SMC this morning

avandonk · #1 21-07-2006, 08:51 AM

Since it was clear and no Moon collected data all night. Here is one result. More to come.
I have made a 'new' stepping motor focuser for lenses will post in DIY&ATM.
Details
Canon 5DH, Canon 300mm F2.8L at F2.8, Hutech LPR filter, 12X600sec at an ISO of 200, In cam noise reduction ON, processed with ImagesPlus and Registar,adjusted for levels and curves with PS and GradientXterminator.

2MB
http://users.bigpond.net.au/avandonk/SMC_2mb.jpg

I don't think this is the last version from this data as it is tricky to get the weak subtle nebs etc to show without enhancing noise and light pollution gradients.
The new focuser as you can see works very well. The cold temperature (3deg C) also helps to keep the camera noise down.

Bert

iceman (Mike) · #2 21-07-2006, 09:17 AM

Wow, incredible shot Bert. Very blue/purple hue on this one though.

That lens is magnificent. Doesn't hurt to have the sort of skill in capture and processing that you do, either

Nice work.

avandonk · #3 21-07-2006, 11:22 AM

Yes Mike you are right, I just accentuated detail in the galaxy. With smaller fields this does not matter I will have to work something out. Here is a pic after digital development and level and curves and GX. The stepper focuser really shows how good the lens is when it is in near perfect focus. It is almost impossible to get it right by eye as the stars are so small. You can now partly understand why these top end lenses cost so much.

Bert

Tamtarn · #4 21-07-2006, 04:02 PM

I've printed your Images of SMC and LMC to use as Sky Charts . I find visual and averted vision the easiest way to locate some DSO'S. Your images will make it easier to locate some of the more difficult ones.

Many thanks Bert

Barb

ballaratdragons (Ken) · #5 21-07-2006, 04:17 PM

Bert,

That is a stunning image!!! The best SMC I have ever seen.

On your High Res image even 47 Tuc on its own is a stunning image!!!!!!!!

May I have your permission to print your pic at full A4 size to hang it in our Clubroom?

tornado33 · #6 21-07-2006, 04:28 PM

Yes great work there Bert.
No good weather expected in my location till well into next week.
Scott

ving (David) · #7 21-07-2006, 04:33 PM

what a stunner. you have loads of detail ther

i dont remember ever seeing a rid ring around it when iver looked tho... must be pretty faint. what sort of filter did you use to bring it out?

avandonk · #8 21-07-2006, 05:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ballaratdragons

Bert,

That is a stunning image!!! The best SMC I have ever seen.

On your High Res image even 47 Tuc on its own is a stunning image!!!!!!!!

May I have your permission to print your pic at full A4 size to hang it in our Clubroom?

I have been getting some printed at hardly n's. Here is a pic of two up on the doors. Yes I take pictures of pictures of DSO's on cloudy nights! They are about 36x24 inchs or A1. You are welcome to as many as you need. Or get them printed yourself I can send high res images by email.

Bert

CometGuy · #9 21-07-2006, 05:18 PM

Bert,

Thats a very stunning image, look at the all the little background galaxies! Just amazing.

Terry

ballaratdragons (Ken) · #10 21-07-2006, 05:37 PM

Thanks Bert. I have done an A4 copy for now of the whole pic and one of just 47Tuc.

I probably will take you up on the idea of getting some larger prints made. We have a 'Hardly Normal' store here in Ballarat.

xelasnave · #11 21-07-2006, 06:25 PM

Excellent as always Bert.
alex

sheeny (Al) · #12 21-07-2006, 06:47 PM

Wow! What else is there to say?

The 2M shot is beautiful and sharp!

Need to get a bit more serious than just taking the shoes off to count those stars!

Al.

avandonk · #13 21-07-2006, 07:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tamtarn

I've printed your Images of SMC and LMC to use as Sky Charts . I find visual and averted vision the easiest way to locate some DSO'S. Your images will make it easier to locate some of the more difficult ones.

Many thanks Bert

Barb

Thats great that you can use it that way. Images are not a substitute for real time observing. What I like about good widefields is that it shows a lot of objects at once and their relative sizes and orientations. By all means enjoy. That is why I put up high resolution images so they can be useful. I do this for enjoyment and to keep the same level of sanity/insanity.

Bert

alandee · #14 22-07-2006, 07:56 PM

wow .. the more you look the more you see ! ( not as obvious as it sounds !! )

Excellent, I really enjoy your endeavours. Thanks.