M31 and M42 (still a beginner!)

[Crunchard]

I have recently become a little (and I do mean a little) better at post-processing, so I tentatively revisited my M31 data. This image is only 3 lights, nothing else, and was taken using an ST80 with an un-modded Canon 1000D.

I am very pleased with the M31 pic, despite the distortion.

This next pic is a cropped image of M42, the Orion nebula. It is 20 lights, again nothing else, taken using an old (25 years+) 400mm camera lens, modded Canon 1100D, mounted on the Astrotrac. Focus is a little soft, but I now have a microfocuser to assist going forward.

Constructive comments always appreciated.

Thanks

[nmoushon]

Thats unfortunate about the coma on M31 but its a great start! M42 is nicely done too.

 What were the exposure lengths on these?

[Crunchard]

Thats unfortunate about the coma on M31 but its a great start! M42 is nicely done too.

 What were the exposure lengths on these?

Thanks, and yes it is a shame, but I can live with it

M31 was 9 mins, 3 x 3mins

M42 was a mixture, starting at 20s, and going up to 90 secs mins, came out at 14 mins in total

[Pete Presland]

nice start a couple of nice images. add some more data to the M31 and you will have a cracking image!

[sologuitarist61]

I'd be pleased with both of those images - very nice indeed!

[Crunchard]

Cheers all.

I'm looking into a small APO, as I no longer have the ST80. Possibly a 66mm, as an 80 maybe just a bit too large for the Astrotrac. Will have to wait and see.