M51 with New Scope (Lum so far)

[Colorado CJ]

I set up my new scope last night (a Skywatcher MN190 Mak Newt), hoping to get LRGB data for M51. I am using a ZWO ASI183MM Pro and set gain to unity (111) and shot 2 minute subs.

I think my subs were too long, but I went ahead and started shooting RGB at the same setting but using 2x2 binning.

Well, as usually happens, clouds moved in, so I only got some Lum, Red and a little Green.

I am going to try to shoot more green, blue, lum and Ha tonight.

Here is how the setup looks. The scope is mounted on a Skywatcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount.

Here is what I got so far. This is 20, 2 minute Luminance subs. I'll be adding more color, narrowband and luminance data tonight (If it is clear) so I can make a full color image. I'll be sure to update the thread with the color image once I finish it.

 

[Ben Egbert]

Wow, you keep pushing the envelope, looking forward to seeing the color version.

 

[JimFox]

This is beyond amazing Andrew even in B&W. It’s really great to see your continual growth with your Astro.

 

[Douglas Sherman]

Beautiful double spiral galaxy, Andrew. Can't wait to see the color version.

 

[Mike Lewis]

Andrew,

Great detail on a great target! M51 is such an amazing sight - probably the most easily imaged interacting galaxy I would think due to its brightness. Cannot wait to see your color data added once you have it collected and post processed!

Edit - forgot to add - that Mak Newt looks sweet! Have always been interested in those. Will have to hear how you get along with it with balancing, as well as collimation. Sure takes some sweet subs though based on this image so far.


ML

 

[AlanLichty]

Amazing looking rig - and equally amazing shot for just a starting out with it. Looking forward to what you get once you are used to it and have all the sensors collecting light and colors.