M42

[Jim]

First attempt with my new setup. Have upgraded the Sphinx mount with the NexSXD motor board which turns it into a celestron. What a difference, tracking is nice and smooth now and there's a lot more functionality in the software.

Meade 127ED
QSI 583 CCD
Ha filter (6nm)
19 x 60 secs

Kept it simple so no guiding, darks, bias or flats. Stacked in Nebulosity, stretched in FITS liberator.

[RobertM]

What a lovely start Jim !  The camera seems to be doing the business and 6nm filter is a good compromise.  You should get some top results from that kit now especially the mount is now sorted.

Since you seem to have got everything else right I think you could be a bit less aggressive with the black point.  That whole background region has nebulosity so should be a lot lighter.

Great first light, I'm looking forward to the colour version now !

Robert

[Fay]

That is fantastic Jim!!

[Mike]

Wow!!   

What a difference Jim. Great image. can't wait to see what you will do once the guiding is turned ON !!

[Daniel]

That's a lovely image Jim, the balance between the outer nebulosity and inner core is fantastic!

Makes me want one of those 6nm Ha filters myself, but alas my hyperstar would never stand for it!

Daniel
:O)

[mickw]

Nice work Jim

[Jim]

Thanks all for your kind comments. I have a lot to learn still but am taking Roberts advice to start simple and learn one thing at a time!

[MarkS]

That's a very nice image you've got there Jim.

It certainly proves everything is working.

Now all you need is a few cloud-free, mist-free nights.  Unfortunately, Mac is just about to build an observatory  

[Rocket Pooch]

Jim,

With your kit you should do better, no excuses now

Chris


P.S. Nice first light.

[Fay]

Have you the built in filter wheel Jim?

[Rocket Pooch]

Yes he has, you know you want one!!!!

[Fay]

HELP!!!

[PhilB]

Buy it now, Fay. Before the VAT increase.

[RobertM]

HELP!!!

Fay, you're well beyond that ! Anyway have you got any money left after the leather sleeping bag 

[Rocket Pooch]

Fay,

Buy it but it, look how nice and smooth Jim's image is, its excellent and better than your images, and yet he really is not as good as you.  Imagine the results you will get.

Chris