Pac-Man Nebula Captured From My Backyard
This stunning image showcases the Pac-Man Nebula, a celestial wonder observed and captured right from my own backyard. The image is a testament to the power of dedicated astrophotography, utilizing specialized equipment and techniques to reveal the hidden beauty of our universe.
The Art of Colorization
This photograph is a monochromatic image that has been skillfully colorized. The nebula itself is rendered in a vibrant red hue, reminiscent of its namesake's iconic color. The stars, in contrast, are presented with a captivating blue tint, adding depth and dimension to the overall composition.
Technical Details of the Capture
The total integration time for this image was an impressive 3 hours. This extended capture period, particularly for the H-alpha filter, allowed for the collection of a significant amount of light, bringing out the faint details within the nebula.
Integration per filter:
- Hα: 3 hours (36 exposures of 300 seconds each)
Equipment Used:
Achieving such detailed images requires high-quality equipment. The following setup was instrumental in capturing the Pac-Man Nebula:
- Telescope: Explore Scientific ED APO 152mm f/8 FCD1 ED
- Camera: ZWO ASI6200MM Pro
- Mount: 10Micron GM2000 HPS II
- Filter: Chroma H-alpha 5nm Bandpass 50x50 mm
This image is a prime example of how passion, patience, and the right tools can bring the cosmos closer to home.