Capturing the Majestic Deer Full Moon from Brazil
Yesterday, September 9th, the southern hemisphere was graced with the sight of the Deer Full Moon, and one dedicated astrophotographer in Brazil managed to capture its splendor. This post breaks down the technical journey behind this incredible image, showcasing the dedication and skill involved in bringing the celestial to our screens.
The Gear Behind the View
To achieve this remarkable shot, a specific set of equipment was employed:
- Telescope: A 130mm f5 telescope provided the primary magnification and light-gathering capability.
- Camera: A modified Canon t2i camera was used, optimized for astrophotography.
- Tracking: A Celestron logic drive engine was instrumental in tracking the moon's movement across the sky, ensuring sharp and clear images.
The Process: From Raw Data to Masterpiece
Capturing the moon is just the first step; the real magic happens in processing. This image is a testament to meticulous data acquisition and skillful post-processing:
- Acquisition: A total of 528 photographs were taken to capture the best possible data.
- Stacking: The raw images were processed using the Siril software. The summing method was employed, with a rejection of 75% of "bad frames" (likely those affected by atmospheric conditions or tracking errors). This resulted in a final stacked image composed of 133 high-quality photographs.
- Post-Processing: Final touches and enhancements were made using Adobe Lightroom, bringing out the intricate details and textures of the lunar surface.
Behold the Deer Full Moon
Here is the stunning result of this meticulous effort:
The Deer Full Moon, occurring in early autumn, is named for the time when male deer (bucks) begin to grow their new antlers. It's a beautiful reminder of the natural cycles occurring both on Earth and in the cosmos.
This image serves as an inspiration to aspiring astrophotographers and a beautiful window into the wonders of our celestial neighbor for everyone. Keep looking up!
