Andromeda Galaxy with M110: A Stunning Astrophoto Achieved in Just 40 Seconds
A truly remarkable image of the Andromeda Galaxy, also known as Messier 31 (M31), and its companion dwarf elliptical galaxy, Messier 110 (M110), has surfaced, showcasing the power of modern astrophotography equipment and processing. What makes this capture particularly impressive is the incredibly short total integration time of just 40 seconds.
This breathtaking view of our closest major galactic neighbor was made possible using a Canon EOS 80D (astromodified) paired with a Tamaron 90mm F2.8 lens. The entire capture was performed on a non-guided tripod, demonstrating that even without advanced tracking, stunning results can be achieved with the right conditions and processing.
The data consisted of 14 individual subs, each exposed for 3 seconds, totaling approximately 40 seconds of exposure time. The settings used were F2.8, 90mm focal length, and ISO3200. Post-processing was carried out using Siril, Graxpert, and Starnet, tools that are essential for bringing out the subtle details in deep-sky objects.
The clarity and detail in the final image, especially considering the minimal exposure, have astounded many. It's a testament to how far imaging technology and stacking/processing software have come, allowing even amateur astronomers to capture awe-inspiring celestial sights with relatively accessible equipment.
This image serves as an inspiration for aspiring astrophotographers, proving that dedication and the right approach can yield spectacular results, even with limited time under the stars.
