First Deep Sky Pictures

[DanLXIX]

Over the last two nights I had my first go at a DSO. Last night was a tough one because I had a real struggle to get aligned so it was tracking poorly and it was windy. The result was less than satisfying.

I spent some time today knocking up something to help the PA and had a second go this evening. I think the result is much better.

Question is, can I improve on this without going guided, and if so what should I try? I shot 20 x 15s at ISO800 tonight. I used Sequator to stack them and Lightroom to post process.

[geordie85]

Flat frames will help a lot. You could also try drift alignment to get better polar alignment 

[DanLXIX]

16 hours ago, geordie85 said:

Flat frames will help a lot. You could also try drift alignment to get better polar alignment 

Yep, I know I need to start using flats - my next bit of the curve. I'm also aware I need to up the total exposure time so that means more of longer shots. I will keep trying on Orion seeing as I have something to build on.

[happy-kat]

More data as 20 light frames is very little, regardless of exposure length, and that is an easy gain. Watch the black point isn't clipped. I prefer DSS unless I need to stack with foreground.

[wxsatuser]

For 15sec exposures not bad, guiding is a really good thing, you will need it once you get away from bright objects like M42.

[dannybgoode]

I am about to try capturing my first images and I will be delighted if they are half as good as this. Really nice...

[DanLXIX]

Thought I'd add my third attempt to this thread for comparison. I think I'm starting to get there and it's certainly better than the first two in my mind.