The weekend of March 2 I had an opportunity to image 3 targets, something of a rarity for me as I usually image just a single target per night unless I am using my RASA 8 astrograph. This evening was a very clear night with good seeing and I was able to continue imaging only my second planetary nebula, Abell 21 or the Medusa Nebula in Gemini and 2 galaxies; NGC 2903 in Leo and Messier 94 also known as the Croc’s Eye Galaxy in Canes Venatici.
As mentioned earlier, this session focusing on three objects builds upon previous nightly sessions concentrated on a single target. In recent weeks, I’ve been exploring the functionalities of SkyTools 4 Imaging, particularly its scheduling capabilities. After configuring parameters such as sub-exposure times, gain, binning, and overall signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) for each imaging project, I incorporate them into the scheduler. This tool then optimizes the timing considering selected filters and the celestial positions of targets to achieve the best SNR while making the most of available observing time. Subsequently, I assess the planned projects for each target, taking into account their timing and celestial positions.
Once the targets are integrated into the schedule, the scheduler identifies the most advantageous times, especially when filters are involved, to maximize efficiency and improve SNR. While I may explore the intricacies of SkyTools further in subsequent posts, for now, I’ll share a couple of images generated from the scheduler. Additionally, it’s worth mentioning that SkyTools enables the importation of scheduled plans into N.I.N.A. However, I’ve faced some challenges with this process since the software is installed on my primary PC rather than the MeLe Overclock mini PC connected to my imaging setup. As a result, I’ve been manually inputting plans into the Advanced Sequencer for the time being.
As March marks the beginning of “galaxy season,” I’ve transitioned to my setup optimized for long focal length imaging. I’ve mounted my Celestron EdgeHD 8 Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope paired with the ZWO ASI533MM Pro camera onto my iOptron CEM60 EQ mount. This particular telescope-camera combination is ideal for capturing small planetary nebulae and faint, distant galaxies due to its extended focal length and narrow field of view, making it my primary preference for imaging during this season.
Other equipment includes:
More details on my equipment will be found on the “My Equipment” webpage
Astrophotographers quickly realize that when it comes to data collection, more is always better, regardless of the sub-exposure time. I’m optimistic that the weather will cooperate, allowing me to continue gathering data until the new moon in March, as these projects are ongoing. Here’s the current tally of accumulated data per target as of the date of this post:
Abell 21 (Medusa Nebula) project started February 28 – planned palette HOO with RGB stars
Nebulosity: (300-second subs binned 2×2 @ gain 100)
RGB Stars (60-second subs binned 2×2 @ gain 0)
NGC 2903 project started February 14 – planned palette HaLRGB
Nebulosity and Stars:
Narrowband: