Limbering up for Autumn

Folks, given that we finally get some real darkness starting the end of July, I figured I'd sweep away the cobwebs, clean the optics and calibrate the setup (I even got the IR filter insatalled and clean enough not to degrade the image).

I also managed to refine my knowledge of the control software and can now safely set up an imaging run and awake to a nicely parked scope. But without an automatic observatory, I have to rely on good weather

As part of the exercise, I managed to nab a good 2 hours worth of data for M51. I imaged this way back in Autumn 2005 - this image is so much better. There's still plenty of room for improvement - darker skies, better seeing, better equipment. But it still surprises me how much I've learned and been able to apply such that my images keep improving.

Of course, now that Michael O'C has his new 12", we can expect the weather to break

Enjoy!

Dave


www.astroshack.net/gallery/galaxies/M51.php

Dave,

Thats a grand image! Nice detail. The IR filter makes the stars look so much better. I suppose the only critical thing I could say is that you're gonna need a bigger CCD!!

Thanks for sharing.

Wow, 63 images of 2 minutes each - the stacking is bang on... or should I say, the tracking?? :oops: Great image Dave!

Great resolution there Dave.
As Dave G said, bigger chip me thinks!