NGC4631 is a starburst galaxy that is viewed edge on from Earth and interacts tidally with the dwarf galaxy NGC4627, forming a "light bridge" between the two objects. It has also very vibrant star forming regions along its length. Due to its shape it is commonly known as the Whale and Companion.
The image below is an LRGB image and represents about 7 hours integration and was taken with my Esprit 150.
Due to poor weather and my multi object acquisition strategy, the image capture ended slightly prematurely since it has now disappeared below my local horizon. ?
Whilst I'd have liked to gather more data, particular on the Lum channel, I was reasonably pleased at the level of detail revealed.
Alan
LIGHTS: L:10, R:6, G:13, B:12 x 600s, DARKS:30, BIAS:100, FLATS:40 all at -20C.