My first Galaxy!

[CKemu]

M51 - Whirlpool Galaxy:

15 x 300s light exposures at ISO 3200

10 x 300s dark exposures at ISO 3200

Meade LX90 8" Scope at prime focus. LP Filter.

Weather and Location:

Kirkby-in-Ashfield, Nottinghamshire, England

7c, hazy with some cloud. Suburban levels of light pollution.

Shooting started at 21:40.

Whilst not entirely happy with this shot, it's a step in the right direction and my first successful attempt at capturing a galaxy.

[JimStan]

Take some "flats" and factor them into the mix, and then tell us if the results are better, or worse.

Flats do add another layer of complication to the process, but once you learn how to work with them, you will probably never want to go back to NOT using them !

Jim S.

[nmoushon]

Thats a great first start! Try stepping the ISO down to 1600 or 800. Especially if you can do 300s subs. Will really help wit the noise in the picture.

[todd8137]

you must be pleased with that it rivals some of the ones on here

[Anweniel]

Very nice M51 and good detail in those arms, this is fantastic for your first galaxy you should be really pleased with it

[Quatermass]

Great first shot tart it up a bit with some processing and flats will certainly help I would be very happy with that one.