It can be done - just keep at it

[Zetetic]

Hi all, first time poster here. Over the last year or so I’ve used SL a lot as a great source of research and guidance.

Like many I was drawn to AP by accident and so wasn’t really able to plan the perfect hardware set up –  it just built up incrementally as much guided by funds as anything – and compromise being made all the way.

I have one of the worst DSLRs for AP – the mythically poor Nikon D3500 (actually a great DSLR – just not for AP and, not to be confused with the D5300). It can only be used via a frustrating app, no option for intervalometer, max exposure 30 seconds unless I go Bulb and a stopwatch. It means a lot of button bashing over a long period of time.

My telescope is a SW Startravel 102. Actually a fine little scope, especially for the price, but very hard to focus perfectly.

I’ve read about both these bits of kit on SL and it’s often far from good as a whole, with some notable exceptions....

The main reason for the post is to say to anyone without the best kit to keep at it. I had the opportunity to process some subs from November in the last few days and whilst far from the best image of M31 I’ve seen, I’m so amazed that anyone can achieve this from their back garden in a relatively light polluted part of Herts. I’ve been tempted to give up many times – I’m so glad I haven’t!!

Thanks to anyone for adding help and advice on this site - I've found it really helpful! Now working my way through the usual targets - M51 next!

[RT65CB-SWL]

Hi @Zetetic and welcome to SGL. 

Nice image too! 

[scotty38]

Nice work!