New to Astro: What is This Peculiar Cigar Shape?
Embarking on the journey of astrophotography is an exciting adventure, and sometimes, the cosmos throws a curveball – or in this case, a cigar shape! A budding astrophotographer, armed with a new Sony 14mm f/1.8 lens on a 6600 body, captured this intriguing anomaly on April 11th. The conditions were less than ideal, with a nearly full moon to the left of the frame and a less-than-steady tripod, but the results were undeniably captivating.
Exposures ranged from 2, 4, and 8 seconds, with the last image being an uncropped shot. The most striking feature? A distinct, elongated shape that prompted a deep dive into the possible causes.
Decoding the Anomaly: Lens Reflections or Cosmic Encounters?
The initial thoughts from the community pointed towards an internal reflection within the lens – a common aberration that can occur when bright light sources (like a moon) interact with the internal elements of a lens. This phenomenon can manifest in various shapes, including streaks and circles.
Another suggestion was to check the camera's "Lens Comp" settings, particularly if they were set to Auto. However, further investigation revealed that these corrections are typically applied to in-camera JPEGs, not RAW files. Even with "Lens Corrections" and other settings turned off in the Sony Desktop Viewer, the artifact persisted in the RAW images (ARW files).
While some might see this as a reason to upgrade to a professional-grade body, the current findings suggest the issue might be more related to the interplay of light and optics rather than a sensor limitation.
A 'God Wink' or an Optical Illusion?
Regardless of the technical explanation, the anomaly has been fondly dubbed a "GOD WINK!" by one observer, highlighting the often poetic and awe-inspiring nature of celestial observation, even when faced with unexpected visual quirks. It's a reminder that even the most advanced equipment can sometimes reveal the unexpected, sparking curiosity and further exploration.
What are your thoughts on this mysterious cigar shape? Have you encountered similar phenomena in your astrophotography? Share your experiences in the comments below!
