Seattle Stargazer

Exploring the cosmos under a double overcast

Heart Nebula

2025-01-26 Photos CloudLooker9000

Another astonishing moment, I feel like this picture was an absolute quantum leap:

Photo Notes
ISO 3200
Exposure 300s
# of Frames 36
Filter SV220
Processing PixInsight

I cannot believe I have bumbled my way into having this picture. Some things that I think are responsible:

  • I tried PixInsight, and spent hours watching tutorial videos
  • I used a light pollution filter
  • I attempted rotating the camera to frame an object

One big thing did not go right. The top left (and top) of my images are blown out with light, and I think it’s because I left the viewfinder or the preview screen of the camera on. As a result, I had to crop out the top third of the image. Here’s roughly what that looks like…

If anyone has ideas about it, I’d sure appreciate your thoughts!

I am blown away, yet again. This is THE MOST FUN.