Winter 2016-2017

Moving toward using the modified T2i as the primary imaging camera. This comes largely after figuring out how to take flats properly using BackyardEOS, which makes the resulting images much more satisfying.

M97 - The Owl Nebula

The famed planetary nebula in Ursa Major, first identified in 1781. Located just over 2,000 light years away.

This image comprises 184 30-second sub-exposures taken with the T2i through the 8" Schmidt-Cassegrain at f/10. Total exposure time: 92 minutes.

M81 - Spiral Galaxy in Ursa Major

Located about 12 million light years away. Generally considered one of the finest spiral galaxies for observing

This image was made from 162 30-second sub-exposures with the T2i through the 8: Schmidt-Cassegrain. Total exposure time: 81 minutes. Would have liked to get more exposure time on this object, but the weather was not compliant.

M109 -- Spiral Galaxy in Ursa Major

Another splendid spiral in the Big Dipper. Estimated to be about 83 million light years distant.

 

This image was created from 117 30-second sub-exposures taken with the T2i through the 8" Schmidt-Cassegrain at f/10 for a total exposure time of 58 minutes and 30 seconds. Much more exposure time is needed to draw out details, but the weather did not afford many clear nights this winter.