Sitting Under the Milky Way ✨
There's something profoundly humbling and awe-inspiring about gazing up at a clear night sky, especially when the heart of our galaxy, the Milky Way, stretches out before you. I recently had the opportunity to capture such a moment, and I'm excited to share the details and the final image with you all.
This panorama was meticulously crafted using a 40mm focal length. This choice was deliberate, aimed at achieving a superior contrast that highlights the intricate, fine structures within the Milky Way. While single shots are quicker, the process of capturing and meticulously processing panoramic images like this is significantly more time-consuming. However, the results, in my opinion, are well worth the effort, especially for regions like the Rho Ophiuchi complex visible on the right side of the image, which truly benefits from the added detail.
I'm incredibly pleased with how this panorama turned out, and I'd love to hear your thoughts!
Technical Details:
Camera & Lens:
- Nikon Z6
- Sigma 28-45 f1.8 (shot at 40mm)
- Megadap ETZ-21 Pro
Sky Acquisition:
- ISO 1000
- f/1.8
- 4x40-second exposures per panel
- 3x2 panel panorama
Foreground Acquisition:
- ISO 3200
- f/1.8
- 40-second exposure (Focus Stacked)
- 3x2 panel panorama
H-alpha Data:
- Sigma 65 f2
- ISO 2500
- f/2
- 6x70-second exposures
Capturing and processing images like this allows us to see the universe in ways we can't with the naked eye, revealing hidden nebulae and delicate star clusters that paint a picture of cosmic wonder. It's a process filled with patience, technical skill, and a deep appreciation for the beauty of space.
