PK 341-24.1: A Celestial Gem Revealed
We're thrilled to share a stunning image of PK 341-24.1, a planetary nebula that showcases the intricate beauty of dying stars. This captivating object was captured using a remarkable setup, offering us a closer look at the final stages of stellar evolution.
The Journey of Capture
This breathtaking image was made possible through a dedicated effort, employing high-quality equipment and meticulous processing. The data was acquired from a pristine Bortle 1 location near Adelaide, South Australia, renowned for its exceptionally dark skies.
Gear Used:
- Telescope: Orion Optics UK AG 12
- Mount: Bisque Paramount
- Camera: ZWO ASI 2600MM
- Filters: ZWO LRGB + Ha + OIII filters
Acquisition Details:
- Location: Near Adelaide, South Australia (Bortle 1)
- RGB Exposure: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes
- Ha Exposure: 8 hours and 50 minutes
- OIII Exposure: 8 hours and 10 minutes
Software for Acquisition:
- NINA
- TheSky
- PHD2
Bringing the Nebula to Life: Processing
The processing of this image was handled with expertise using PixInsight, incorporating various advanced techniques. The final result features RGB stars with an additional layer of Ha and OIII blended over the planetary nebula. Despite the object being relatively small and simple, the processing involved careful curve adjustments to highlight its delicate structures.
For those interested in seeing the close-up and starless version, it's available on Astrobin:
This image of PK 341-24.1 is a testament to the passion and skill of astrophotographers, allowing us to connect with the wonders of the universe from our own planet.
