My First Andromeda Galaxy Astrophotography Attempt

For many astrophotographers, the Andromeda Galaxy (M31) is a celestial rite of passage. It's a vast, awe-inspiring spiral galaxy, our closest galactic neighbor, and a truly magnificent target for capturing with a camera.

I'm thrilled to share my very first serious attempt at photographing the Andromeda Galaxy! This image was captured in July 2025 from the clear skies of the Catskills in New York.

The Gear and the Process

Capturing this image was a journey of learning and utilizing some trusted equipment. Here's a breakdown of what went into it:

• Camera: Nikon Z7II
• Lens: Old Nikon 80-200mm
• Star Tracker: Old Star Adventurer

Acquisition Details

• Exposure: 122 images, each 30 seconds long.
• Focal Length: 200mm
• Aperture: f/4.0
• ISO: 1600
• Calibration Frames: 30 bias, 30 flat, and 30 dark frames were also taken to improve image quality.

Processing Workflow

The journey from raw data to the final image involved a multi-step process:

1. Stacking: All 122 light frames, along with the calibration frames, were stacked in Siril. This process combines multiple exposures to reduce noise and enhance detail.
2. Stretching and Star Removal: In Siril, the stacked image was stretched to reveal faint details, and the stars were temporarily removed to focus on the galaxy itself.
3. Refinement in Photoshop: The Andromeda Galaxy was then brought into Photoshop for further cleanup and enhancement.
4. Star Reintegration: Finally, the stars were reintroduced into the image using Siril to add back that essential starry background.

A Personal Touch

There's always a bit of personal preference that creeps into astrophotography. While there's no inherent 'up' or 'down' in space, I find I personally prefer the orientation where M110 (Andromeda's satellite galaxy) appears on the "bottom."

Looking Ahead

This first attempt has been incredibly rewarding, and I'm already excited to refine my techniques and capture even more celestial wonders. The universe is vast and full of incredible sights waiting to be photographed!