This is an RGB image made from POSS2 red and blue filter data with a synthetic green channel (a 50:50 mix of red and blue). I added a bit extra luminosity to the "blue dragon" by mixing in some blue data as a luminosity layer. All in PS CS5.
POSS2 is a 1990ies sky survey based on monochrome glass plate images (red or blue filtered) taken with a 1.2-m Schmidt camera at the Mt. Palomar Observatory. Data is available at:
http://archive.stsci.edu/cgi-bin/dss_form I have to say that I really like it , especially the detail in the blue "dragon" and how it appears to cast shadows on the red nebulosity below and how the central star lights up the surroundings.
Since it is not my data, and I am just the interpreter, I take the liberty to say that it is difficult to find any better renditions of this nebula than this one, captured 20+ years ago on glass plates. It is just amazing how today's digital technology allows us to stretch the signal and help bringing it out.
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