This hydrogen gas and dust filled region is probably the most recognized regions of space in the northern latitudes. The most popular and visible objects in this image are the Orion Nebula - M42, de Mairan's Nebula (M43), Running Man Nebula (NGC 1977), IC 434, Horsehead Nebula (B33), Flame Nebula (NGC 2024), Angelfish Nebula/Orion's Head Nebula (SH 2-264), and Barnard's Loop (SH 2-276). There many more not really visible in my image such as M78. This is the second time I have done this area, the first was three years ago. There is a significant improvement, however, I was hoping for a better more in depth image. I think I can get one that I am truly satisfied with but will take some time.

I used my modified Canon 600d and a 50mm f/1.8 lens mounted on the Skyguider Pro and a Manfrotto camera tripod. Additional items include: 2-inch Baader Neodymium Moon and Skyglow Filter and a 12nm Astronomik Ha Clip-in filter.

Barnard's Loop is much apparent in this image compared to the last time as is the other objects. Also the star are much better this time around. So why I am I not jumping for joy? I had to trash about half of my exposures due to fine clouds and focusing using the Ha Clip-in filter is very tough when the moon is not out to focus in on. I was out the other night on what looked like a clear night and it was is certain parts of the sky. I was imaging on my main telescope with no problem, however, Orion in lower in the sky and prone to more clouds. Also, because it is such a wide field, there is more room for clouds and planes to photo bomb an image.

Note:

If you get a Ha clip-in be aware of trying to focus because live view on is useless as you have to keep taking longer exposures. It is easier when using a telescope or larger lens like a say a 200 mm lens but with the 50mm lens it is tough.

If you try this object with a similar setup I would suggest setting the ISO to 1600 rather than 800 like I did and if you can go to a dark site. Needles to say processing was very tough as there were lots of gradients and lots of noise particularly in the Ha.

This was also the first time in two years I used APT with my DSLR. The latest additions now support live view which makes focusing much easier, in color that is! Thanks Ivo. Longer exposures are still needed for Ha and BYEOS may have a slight advantage as there is a looping tool that APT does not seem to have, or maybe it does and I did not see it.