The Triangulum Galaxy Captured: A Deep Space Astrophotography Journey
After successfully tackling the magnificent Andromeda Galaxy, my sights were set on its captivating neighbor, the Triangulum Galaxy (M33). This celestial pursuit proved to be a significantly more challenging endeavor.
Battling the Lunar Glow
The primary obstacle in capturing M33 was the encroaching presence of the moon. As my imaging nights progressed, the moon grew steadily brighter, casting a subtle but impactful glow that complicated the process. Ideally, another night of clear skies with minimal moonlight would have been beneficial for even richer detail.
Technical Details of the Capture
This image is the result of dedicated effort, combining approximately 7 hours of data. The capture was made using a telescope with a focal length of 264mm, paired with a cooled camera. Despite operating in a moderately light-polluted sky from southern France, the final image reveals impressive detail.
Image Details:
- Target: Triangulum Galaxy (M33)
- Focal Length: 264mm
- Camera: Cooled Camera
- Total Integration Time: ~7 hours
- Sub-Exposures: 176 individual exposures of 150 seconds each
- Filters: Integrated UV/IR cut filter
- Location: Southern France (moderately light-polluted sky)
This image showcases the intricate structures within the Triangulum Galaxy, a testament to the patience and skill involved in deep-sky astrophotography. The challenges presented by the lunar phase only add to the appreciation of the final result.
