What's one to do with the moon shining so bright? Give the narrowband filters a workout of course. The latest image acquired is M16:
Scope: GSO RC8
Mount: EQ6 with EQmod
Camera: ST-8300 with Baader SII, OIII and Ha filters
Guiding: SX-AO at 4Hz
Acquisition: 13x15min Ha 1x1 binned (as luminance layer)
13x5min SII, OIII and Ha 2x2binned
Calibrated, stacked and combined in DSS and Nebulosity
Top work Keith!
Love the colours.. narrow band is the answer I reckon if you want nice small stars, different areas brought out to the norm broad spectrum images and the big bonus, can be used in full moonlight and light polution...
Way to go!
Looks as if the SX AO is working well as this FL.
Yeh great result Keith, some good detail vsisible in the pillars too. I like the copper and bronze colour tones - different
Mike
Thanks Mike, the Ha provides all the detail and yeah I was happy with what could be seen not only in the pillars themselves but also the surrounding Bok globules and gas clouds. Colours? well now, them's a fightin' word
Quote:
Originally Posted by DavidU
Great detail & depth.Nice work.
Thanks David, this is a nice bright Ha region for a change which makes it a whole lot easier to bring out the data with my limited processing skills.
Quote:
Originally Posted by richardo
Top work Keith!
Love the colours.. narrow band is the answer I reckon if you want nice small stars, different areas brought out to the norm broad spectrum images and the big bonus, can be used in full moonlight and light polution...
Way to go!
Looks as if the SX AO is working well as this FL.
Rich
Thanks Rich, Yeah, I have to agree with you, the narrowband filter offer distinct advantages but its not for all objects. I'm finding it really convenient from my location but the flip side is longer exposures... ah tradeoffs
As for the AO, should have used it earlier I find it makes guiding a lot easier. I have run some subs out to 1 hour with not too much problem, provided the PA is good. As always, appreciate your input.
Quote:
Originally Posted by multiweb
Some real good work there Keith. Top stuff.
Ta Marc, a couple of late nights for this one but I've been waiting since last year for another crack at it with some better gear. Glad you liked it.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Mighty_oz
Lovely detail there, amazing what u can do with todays equipment hey
Thanks Marcus, I agree with you totally on that point. Some of Mike's (he of the strongman clan) comparisons of amateur equipment (although expensive) to the big boys are mind boggling. Importantly, more of it is becoming within reach of us common folk.
Thankyou all for your input, its really appreciated.
VERY nice Keith. I'm saving for the same CCD (or a QHY9). Can I lock you in for lessons in 6months!! hahaha
Thanks Logan, you'll enjoy the extra resolution from that camera, whomever the maker. Just be prepared for extra work! Lessons? Get that cheque book out......
Super shot. I personally would like it to show a bit more of the blue just to balance out the colours in the image but that's just my taste.
How do you like the SX AO unit?
Greg.
Ta Greg, I know what you mean, after Fred's brilliant starless effort last year, the blue hues really work in this region. The AO is good, a bit exxy with the Lodestar but once you've invested in the gear....... Use it or loose it. It performs well but doesn't make up for not having a Paramount I find it easier to use than a guidescope and no flexure issues. Appreciate the comments Greg.
Well done .. great shots .... you guys amaze me , with what you can do with a camera .... and a bit of Software ..
Thanks Colin, the technology available to amateurs these days plays a major part but don't forget there is a community of committed hobbyists willing to pass on advice and push the envelope. Viva la IIS
Quote:
Originally Posted by iceman
Beautiful image, Keith. I really like the colours in this one.
Well this is a surprise!! Thanks for the honor Mike, you've just made my day! Glad you feel it's worthy of joining the ranks of the other wonderful IOTW's. Much appreciated.
Some real good work there Keith. Top stuff. 
I find it makes guiding a lot easier. I have run some subs out to 1 hour with not too much problem, provided the PA is good. As always, appreciate your input.
