M101: A Glimpse of the Pinwheel Galaxy from North Georgia
This stunning image showcases the majestic Pinwheel Galaxy, also known as M101. Captured from the top of Brasstown Bald Observatory in North Georgia, this photograph is a testament to the beauty of our night sky and the dedication of astrophotographers.
A Challenging Shoot
The astrophotographer faced a common challenge: by March, M101 becomes too high in the sky, making it difficult to capture in light-polluted skies. Despite these hurdles, a total exposure time of nearly 2 hours was achieved, revealing the intricate details of this magnificent spiral galaxy.
Unveiling Neighboring Galaxies
Beyond the grandeur of M101, the image also highlights several neighboring galaxies, adding depth and context to the cosmic landscape. These include:
- NGC 5474
- NGC 5422
- NGC 5473
- NGC 5477
- NGC 5485
- NGC 5486
The Technical Details
The image was captured using a Nikon Z8 with a 500mm lens, mounted on a Sky Watcher Star Adventurer. The exposure details are as follows:
- Total Exposure Time: 124 Minutes
- Exposure Settings: 20s at f/5.6, ISO 10000
Post-processing played a crucial role in bringing out the details. The raw data was stacked in PixInsight, followed by color correction and other basic adjustments in Photoshop CC.
This photograph is a brilliant example of what can be achieved in astrophotography with the right equipment, dedication, and a passion for the cosmos.
