IC434

This image of the Horsehead complex was taken at my driveway in Orlando, Florida, under mag 3.7 skies. The complex not only includes B33 (the Horsehead) as part of IC434, but also the Flame (NGC2024), a small reflection nebula below the HH (NGC2023) and a couple of small nebula patches to the left (IC432 and IC431). This region is a favorite of imagers, especially taken with an H-alpha filter. Visually, the Horsehead is extremely difficult to see, requiring large aperture and transparent/dark skies. An H-beta filter helps to visualize the nebula. In contrast, the Flame is relatively easy to see in smaller scopes.

Please use the links to scan the larger versions of this image. This image is only 33 percent of full sized.

Image info:

10" Homebuilt Newtonian

Starlight Express SXV-M25 one-shot ccd camera

24x10 (total of 240 mins)

f/3 with Keller Corrector and H-alpha filter

Color converted, stacked and flattened in Maxim and tweaked in PS

Guided with SX OAG and SX guide head

12.18.06 and 12.19.06

Orlando, Florida