M97 - The Owl Nebula

[antimorris]

I don't do planetary nebulas very often but thinking of doing them a bit more as my CPC needs to get some work other than just being my tracking mount.

Gorgeous night out 2 nights ago and I was able to get a decent amount of data on this, esp in OIII so I could just start to pull out the outer shock wave. Need a few more hours (and possibly some 30-45 min subs) in OIII to get more definition in the shock wave but happy with it for now. Processed as Ha/OIII/OIII and then color balanced to move the aqua hue more to blue.

M97 - Owl Nebula

Imaged: 18 Feb 2012

Imaging Scope: Celestron CPC800XLT (@ f/6.3)

Imaging Camera: Atik 314L+

Guide camera: StarlightXpress Lodestar

Integration details:

Ha: 9x900s

OIII: 8x1200s

Total integration time: 4hrs 55min

(image links to larger version)

[Tom OD]

Good pic and lots more on your website. Love that reflection neb one in Camel.... (Can't spell it, beside Ursa Major)

Tom

[Quatermass]

Nice one Anna it really does look like an owl very cool

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[Shibby]

So that's how it's supposed to look! You've revealed some nice detail in such a small object.

When I imaged this, my other half couldn't see the "owl" at all but I think it's clear as day!

[antimorris]

When I imaged this, my other half couldn't see the "owl" at all but I think it's clear as day!

Maybe this will help?

[Quatermass]

lol thats the one

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[nytecam]

Beautiful 'Owl' Anna - first time I'm seen the outer envelope recorded - well done ;-)

[SkyJamie]

This is brilliant Anna and your gallery is full of awesome images

Jamie

[antimorris]

Thank you all very much for your kind comments. I was shooting to get that outer OIII shockwave. Even at 20min subs on a perfect night (seeing and transparency were excellent) I still only just have it. I might do a few more hours with longer (30-45min) subs next great night we have but those seem few and far between this winter!