M51

Here is another version of M51, the Whirlpool Galaxy, in Canes Venatici. The image was a test of the 10" f/4 Newt at f/8, achieved by using a 2x barlow. Some slight miscollimation is evident in the stars (see full sized view), but a good result overall. Despite 200 minutes under a slightly hazy sky, more time would benefit the image and smooth out the noise. This shot was taken at Chiefland during the May new moon.

Click here or on image for full sized version

Image info:

10" Homemade Newtonian on a Losmandy Titan Mount

Starlight Express
SXV-H9C

100x2 mins

f/8 with Barlow

Acquired in Astroart and processed in Maxim as an RGB image (no darks and no flats)

guided with an STV on a piggybacked Sky90 refractor

5.8.05

Chiefland