M17

M17, often called the Swan Nebula, is a large emission nebula located in the constellation of Sagittarius. Although not as obvious from longer exposure images, views in a larger scope easily show the rather distinctive swan shape. This shot was taken from Chiefland's Astro Village with the 12.5" Newt at f/4.6!

Image info:

12.5" Homebuilt Newtonian

Starlight Express SXV-M25 one-shot ccd camera

17x10 minutes (170 total)

f/4.6 with Paracorr Corrector

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

Guided with SX OAG and SX guide head

4.25.09

Chiefland, FL