AndysAstroPix

This image This image showcases the dynamic interplay of mixed ionized gases swirling near the central core of NGC 3372. Rendered in a Hubble-inspired narrowband colour palette, both with and without Ha stars, capturing the intricate beauty of this extraordinary nebula. The Process I've attempted to capture the natural details of the nebula in each of the three filters without relying on artificial processing enhancements. The process then involves assigning each wavelength its own unique colour, carefully preserving its individuality while delicately adjusting saturation levels to achieve an overall harmonious balance and depth. Preserving the nebula's dynamic range is paramount to my goal. This entails showcasing active regions of star formation in vivid brightness yet ensuring that these highlights maintain intricate details. Meanwhile, the darker areas are treated with subtlety, offering glimpses of hidden information. Data was captured from my suburban backyard in Melbourne, Australia. (Pop 5,000,000 - Bortle scale 7) Composition Exploring the art of visual composition has been an enjoyable journey for me. I've composed this image using a Fibonacci spiral (or Golden Spiral). It's quite intuitive as the spiral guides the viewer's gaze along natural curves. Applying this concept when framing objects can enhance visual appeal. It's evident in structures like the pyramids and artworks like Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper. Nature also showcases it in shells, pineapples, and honeycombs. Artists and designers have used the golden spiral for centuries. It serves as a visual roadmap, in this case, directing attention towards RCW53C! The Nebula Commonly referred to as the Carina Nebula, along with the region known as RCW53C, though nomenclature discrepancies exist. Within this region reside stars of remarkable heat and mass, each approximately 10 times hotter and 100 times more massive than our Sun. Prominently featured is the circular 'keyhole' structure, which exhibits a dynamic interplay of bright, hot gas filaments and dark, cold molecular clouds in frenetic motion. Notable within the frame are two large, sharply defined dust clouds poised near the centre and upper-left edges. Should dense condensations form within them, these clouds may either dissipate over time or birth compact star clusters. Encompassing a staggering diameter of over 200 light-years, the Carina Nebula stands as a prominent landmark within the southern hemisphere of the Milky Way galaxy. Situated 8,500 light-years away, it ranks among the largest diffuse nebulae, spanning approximately 460 light-years in breadth. It's sadly hidden from most observers in the northern hemisphere. Various young star clusters and nebulous formations lie within its expanse, including the iconic Mystic Mountain, the Homunculus Nebula, and the Keyhole Nebula. Among its notable inhabitants is the enigmatic Eta Carinae, a luminous blue variable star. Furthermore, X-ray imagery has unveiled multiple supernova events within NGC 3372. Paraeidolia Also featured is a striking resemblance to the iconic "Smoking Man" from the popular X-Files series, famously portrayed by William B. Davis. Just as omnipresent as he was in the show, it seems fitting to find his likeness in the heavens! 😀 Thanks for looking! CS Andy Imaging Telescope Takahashi TOA-130F Imaging Cameras Atik APX60 Mono Mounts iOptron CEM70G Dates: 16 - 18 Mar 2024 Frames: Chroma H-alpha 5nm Bandpass 2": 42×600″(7h) Chroma OIII 3nm Bandpass 2": 43×600″(7h 10′) Chroma SII 5nm Bandpass 2": 47×600″(7h 50′) Integration: 22h

As above (sigh) sorry!

Accidental duplicate post

Hi Folks, Imagine imaging DSO's with a One Shot colour camera but with the added detail and sensitivity of full Narrowband. Here we have my interpretation of IC2944 (aka The Running Chicken Nebula) using a "natural" palette, taken with a mono camera, with the Sii in 'ultra-red', Ha in red and Oiii in green and blue channels, with the stars removed. There's also a curious unclassified object, seen at the top left of the frame, that is reminiscent of a mini Vela supernova remnant. I haven't seen it imaged before, so I'm not sure what it is! 🤣 Approximately 30 hours of data were taken with the kind assistance of my Astro buddy 'Blue', from his property in rural Victoria, Australia. Takahashi TOA-130F Atik APX60 Mono iOptron CEM70G Chroma H-alpha 5nm Bandpass 2" · Chroma OIII 3nm Bandpass 2" · Chroma SII 5nm Bandpass 2" Pegasus Astro Ultimate Powerbox 2 · Takahashi TOA-35 Reducer for 130 Adobe Photoshop · Aries Productions Astro Pixel Processor (APP) · DxO Image Science NIK Collection · Open PHD Guiding Project PHD2 · ProDigital Software Astronomy Tools Actions Set · Russell Croman Astrophotography NoiseXTerminator · Russell Croman Astrophotography StarXTerminator · Starkeeper Voyager

Just a heads up that requested written feedbacks and scores are now available for all entrants by logging in to the APP entry portal. The online judges worked hard to make these educational, and it's my hope that all entrants gain some benefit from their experience and observations, regardless of what their images have scored https://awards.australianphotographicprize.com.au/auth/login The image galleries are also posted; finalists with scores of 90+ are displayed when selected, as are semi-finalists 80-89, and commended 75-79. https://winners.australianphotographicprize.com.au/competition/647437f68c68884d4a92c9af Of course, expressing disappointment when expectations are unfulfilled is human nature, but constructive criticism and suggestions for the APP are most welcome. The organizers are listening, appreciate your support and intend to make what became Australia's most popular Astrophotography comp an even better event next year. The (unedited) replay of the live judging can be viewed here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R7Gnr9-Bytw CS Andy

Winners Announcement! In a very close contest, congratulations to the Australian Photographic Prize, Astrophotography Competition winners! Astro Landscape: Tristian McDonald "Double Helix"Tristian is from New Zealand and provided the following information about his image. After the main Aurora display died down, I was amazed to see this S.T.E.V.E appear in the East and travel directly overhead to the West.Seven image Vertorama of this incredible phenomenon.; 15sec - ISO4000 - f2.8 - 24mm; Nikon D750; Tamron 24-70mm; Nugget Point Lighthouse; 24 - 04 - 2023 Astro Deep Space: Steeve Body "Gabriella and the Cosmic Inferno"Steeve is from Australia and provided the following information about his image. This 2-panel mosaic is an endeavour to showcase the breathtaking intricacies of the Carina Nebula, paired with the captivating aspects of NGC 3324. The Carina Nebula, a Southern Hemisphere exclusive and the brightest nebula in the sky takes a proud stand on the right side of this image. Its core bristles with mesmerising phenomena, from towering dust pillars to compact globules and objects that have achieved fame through the Hubble Telescope's lens. Discover 'The Defiant Finger', whose elegant structure is beautifully portrayed. Gaze upon the 'Mystic Mountains', colossal pillars of dust and gas, their exquisite detail captured by Hubble's watchful eye. To the left, NGC 3324 captivates us. Known as the Gabriela Mistral Nebula, it mirrors the silhouette of the renowned Chilean poet, adding a touch of artistic resonance to this cosmic exploration.This two-frame mosaic taken from Bentleigh, Victoria features a panoramic view of some of the most significant features belonging to the brightest nebula in the night sky.; Ha 40x600, Oiii 40x600, Sii 40x600, RGB 40x45s each; 1600mm Pro SHO 3nm Antlia Filters RGB Pro Filters; Askar 107 PHQ; Bentleigh, Victoria; 1 Apr 2023 2 Apr 2023 3 Apr 2023 15 Apr 2023; The organizers (and I) would sincerely like to thank all the entrants who supported this competition. There can only be one winner for each category, but hopefully, the online judging, live debates and written feedback will be a useful resource to help all the entrants wherever they are on their astrophotography journey! There were 433 entries - 263 in Deep Space and 170 Astro Landscape.Images were received from 14 countries over 5 continents, including the USA, UK, Germany, Estonia, France, Austria, Sweden, Romania, India, Pakistan, Chile, New Zealand & Australia! The top 25 images of each category averaging just over 85/100 in online judging - were then rejudged by the APP panel, in front of a live audience, and broadcast in real time on YouTube. This was watched closely by entrants across the globe, a worldwide first for an Astrophotography competition! While not without it's technical challenges, this proved to be both educational & entertaining! Special thanks to the competition sponsor, Sidereal Trading and William Optics for the generous prizes - a WO Redcat 51 telescope for each category winner. Huge thanks to the live judging panel - Dr. Tanya Hill, PhD Astronomy BSc (Hons) Physics, "Strongman" Mike Sidonio (Act), Diego Colonello (Vic) Ari Rex (Act), Tim Moon (NSW) and Grand Master Photographers Paul Hoelen (Tas) and Peter Eastway (NSW). Also a special shoutout to online judge Marcel Drescher, for his contributions from Germany. In closing, thanks again to Mike Sidonio for his popular, educational, well-received Keynote presentation following the judging. We’ve all learned a great deal from this experience, and I’m sure we’ll be back again next year bigger & better than ever!So go outside & keep looking up; space is amazing!

Entries close in 8 days! Are you seeking a chance to showcase your work and gain international recognition? Enter Australia’s most Prestigious International Photography Awards and be recognised amongst the industry’s BEST! 📸🏆 ➡️➡️ Enter NOW >>> https://australianphotographicprize.com.au/astrophotography-competition/ Entries close 5pm Monday, 3 July 2023 AEST (that's 8am GMT)

The 2023 Australian Photographic Prize is proud to announce the launch of the new Astrophotography Competition with two categories, Astro Deep Space and Astro Landscape. International entries are welcome! Astrophotographers who spend hours at the telescope and behind the computer capturing the beauty and wonder of the night sky, can now showcase their talent, skill, and scientific and artistic flare at the Australian Photographic Prize. A panel of experienced scrutineers and judges, collectively proficient in and familiar with astrophotography's specialised techniques and science, will critique and assess the entries. Uniquely, the top 25 entries for each category will be judged live at Photography Studies College in Melbourne on July 21, 2023 between 2:30-5:30 PM. (This will be broadcast on YouTube). After the judging, there will be a presentation by leading Australian Astrophotographer ‘Strongman’ Mike Sidonio. Enter NOW for your chance to win a William Optics Redcat 51 Telescope (valued at $1500). Find out more and Enter Here - https://australianphotographicprize.com.au/astrophotography-competition/ Entries close 5PM 3 July 2023.

Enjoy this YouTube replay of a recent information session on Zoom - "Secrets of Award-Winning Astrophotography". Here is the link to the Zoom presentation... https://youtu.be/BI191gHIhqM I do hope you enjoy it. Entries for the Australian Photographic Prize Astrophotography Competition open tomorrow! Clear Skies Andy

"Secrets of Award-Winning Astrophotography". Award-winning astrophotographers and AusPrize astro judges 'Strongman' Mike Sidonio, Ari rex, Tim Moon & and Andy Campbell discuss all things astro and awards, providing valuable insights into entering the highly competitive Australian Photographic & Videography Prize. This year there are two divisions in the competition - Astro Deep Space and Astro Landscape - with each division winner receiving a William Optics Redcat 51 Telescope, valued at $1500! We delve deep into the world of astrophotography and explore tips and techniques that have led to award-winning entries. Our experienced judges will also highlight the judging criteria and offer practical advice to improve your astrophotography skills. YouTube replay link -

Delighted to announce that @Marcel Drechsler, of the renowned Strottner-Drechsler research team, has come on board as one of the APP online judges. You may already know him as an Astrobin judge and award-winning astrophotographer. https://www.astrobin.com/users/Marcel_Drechsler/ In the short time of its existence, the Strottner-Drechsler research team has already made and photographed numerous discoveries that have received recognition from experts: more than 350 scientifically relevant discoveries (also in international collaborations) a gigantic plasma arc not far from the Andromeda galaxy M31 The discovery of a new class of galactic nebulae the discovery of the first developed nebular shell of a "Common Envelope System" a hitherto unknown characteristic of dying giant stars the optical detection of 9 supernova remnants (three of which are among the largest ever discovered) Several new giant structures within the Andromeda galaxy M31 Dozens of objects of previously unknown nature The team's most significant discovery in early 2023 was unveiling an unknown, giant, turquoise-coloured plasma arc near the Andromeda Galaxy - probably the most photographed cosmic object ever. The discovery of this plasma arc has changed the face of the Andromeda Galaxy forever. It is considered the most important astronomical discovery made by amateurs in recent years, generating the biggest media coverage for the team to date. The discovery of a hitherto new class of galactic nebulae around the binary star YY Hya, and the probably related lost nova apparition from the year 1065, also caused a great stir among international scientists and amateurs alike. Against this background, it is not surprising that dozens of articles in various journals - including such renowned ones as Scientific American - deal with the research team's discoveries. We are thrilled that Marcel has joined the judging panel and look forward to seeing everyone's entries. Images from June 2018 are eligible; rules/details are here - https://australianphotographicprize.com.au/astrophotography-competition/

The 2023 Australian Photographic Prize has two new astrophotography categories this year, Astro Landscape & Astro Deep Space. You could win one of two William Optics Redcat 51’s from William Optics & Sidereal Trading! Entries open June 1st 2023. Images taken after June 2018 are eligible. International entries are welcome too! The top 25 of each category are judged live by a panel of five leading astrophotographers (and an Astrophysicist!), so the debates should prove interesting and educational. This is a unique format for an Astro comp, and all entrants have the opportunity for written feedback on their submissions. Final judging will be broadcast live on YouTube on July 21st, so UK entrants can tune in. Details here - https://australianphotographicprize.com.au/astrophotography-competition/ Good luck all! (Posted with Mods permission) Andy

Many thanks all for the kind comments and feedback, much appreciated! Vela keeps on giving... 😀

Resembling a swooping Klingon Bird of Prey, this pretty open star cluster is located in Vela. IC 2395 is silhouetted against an Ha rich background and surrounded by shockwaves of ionised oxygen from a nearby star that exploded as a supernova some 11,000 years ago. This is a young stellar cluster being between 6 and 18 million years old. Based on its young age and distance, it is possible that IC 2395 is part of the Vela OB1C stellar association. The brightest member of the cluster has mag 5.53, and its bluest main sequence star is of spectral type B5. The LRGB was taken at a rural dark site, using Voyager. The NB data was collected via Stellarmate, from my bortle 7 suburban backyard in Melbourne, Australia. 🇦🇺 Not many (or even any) detailed HaO3LRGB images of this cluster online, so please enjoy this often overlooked target! C&C welcome as always 😀

Can't help but think this looks like a map of Queensland, Australia. BBW 56 - Not too many images of this large molecular cloud structure with ionization front. It's an interesting target that I visited previously. That time I only used HaS2N2, but on this occasion I was determined to capture some O3. It's there - just dim - 9 hrs Bin 2x2 has revealed it's presence here, (seen in blue). BBW56 is one of 400 objects catalogued by Brand, Blitz and Wouterloot. The catalogue established in 1986 was based on a study to understand the outer galaxy rotation curve from the Southern Hemisphere. As Brand, Blitz and Wouterloot researched the southern sky they catalogue various objects. Many of these objects are lesser known perhaps due to being extremely faint. BBW56 is a complex nebula comprising of emission and dusty reflection nebulosity. The presented image is a small area of a much larger nebula structure residing in the constellation Puppis. (text: Jason Jennings) Big thanks to my buddy Paul who captured the Ha from his dark site while my gear was on holiday there. Paul also captured some RGB stars for me with his gear, which I've masked here with the Ha stars imaged with my gear, to allow the best of both worlds - tiny stars with natural colours. 😀