Introduction
I'm delighted to share with you my latest astrophotographic adventure, focusing on the magnificent nebula NGC 7380, also known as the Sorcerer's Nebula. Located in the constellation Cepheus, this nebula is a true jewel of the night sky. In this post, I'll detail the process of capturing and processing this image, while sharing some fascinating scientific information about this celestial object.
Technical data
For this capture, I used the following equipment and parameters:
Telescope: Orion Newtonian 200/800 mm 8” f/4 Astrograph
Mount: Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro
Camera: QHYCCD QHY294M Pro
Filters:
Antlia H-alpha 4.5nm
Antlia OIII 4.5nm
Optolong SII 6.5nm
Accessories:
Automatic focuser PrimaLuceLab Sesto Senso
Coma corrector Baader Planetarium MPCC mkIII 2.00"
Filter wheel QHYCCD CFW3 US
Off-axis guide ZWO Optical ZWO OAG
Capture software: NINA
Processing software: PixInsight 1.8
Exposure details are as follows:
Total exposure time: 16 hours
Number of underexposures:
57 x 180 seconds Ha
94 x 180 seconds OIII
170 x 180 seconds SII
Gain: 1600 (11 MP mode)
Sensor temperature: -10°C
Capture process
Capturing NGC 7380 began with careful planning. Using software such as Stellarium and Telescopius, I was able to determine the best observation window from Montreal. Precise tracking of the EQ6-R Pro mount was crucial to obtaining sharp images despite the long exposures required. I used NINA software to automate the capture process, allowing me to maximize my observing time.
Image processing
Raw image processing was carried out primarily with PixInsight. Here are the key steps:
Pre-processing: Calibration of images with darks, flats and bias to correct for sensor defects and brightness variations.
Stacking: Combining images to increase the signal-to-noise ratio.
Post-processing:
Gradient Correction: Elimination of background gradients.
BlurXterminator, StarXterminator
DeepSNR : Noise reduction while preserving fine detail.
Selective Color Correction : Color correction for accurate representation.
Finally, I used Photoshop for the finishing touches, including detail enhancement and color adjustment.
Scientific information on NGC 7380
SH2-142, also known as the Sorcerer's Nebula, is a star-forming region located around 8,500 light-years from Earth in the constellation Cepheus. Discovered by Caroline Herschel in 1787, this nebula is associated with the open star cluster of the same name.
Main characteristics
Type: Emitting nebula and open cluster
Dimensions: Approximately 20 light-years in diameter
Apparent magnitude: 7.2
Age: Between 4 and 12 million years old
The nebula is composed of gas ionized by the cluster's hot young stars, giving rise to its characteristic glow. The complex shapes and dark structures visible in the nebula are due to light-absorbing clouds of interstellar dust.
Conclusion
Capturing and processing the image of NGC 7380 has been a rewarding experience that has allowed me to explore the wonders of the universe. I hope this post has inspired you to find out more about astrophotography and the fascinating celestial objects we can observe from our own backyard.Feel free to share your own experiences and ask questions in the comments below. See you soon for a new adventure under the stars!
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