12/07/2014 - Uploaded my first full mosaic image. This is a first attempt at processing this large three panel mosaic of a galaxy of which I have always wanted a "large" photo. I am very happy with my first attempt. There are a few issues with gradients between panels that I need to address in my follow-up processings. However, I couldn't wait to share what I have thus far.

Processed using a LRGB approach to the DSLR data. Inidividual frames were registered and calibrated using Registar.

I apologize as I prefer to not post full resolution versions of my photos (intellectual property). This is a result of my photography business and background. I will also post some "nearly 100%" crops for examples of what is visible. The HII regions are plentiful and beautiful. Also, there are a myriad of faint background galaxies visible in the full res version.

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Yet another "work in progress" due to poor weather pushing back my ability to acquire data. This 2 panels of a total of 3 for a mosaic of the Andromeda galaxy. Currently I have about 2.25 hours invested in each panel. I intend to acquire ~4-5 hours per panel for a total of 12-15hrs. I did not take much effort in trying to reduce noise and prevent star bloat. The color is not perfect and I will certainly take much more care in processing when all data is acquired. Even with the limited data already acquired I am very happy with the details visible in the galaxy. Star clouds, clusters, and HII regions abound. I just wanted to share what I have been trying to accomplish this past late winter up until now.

I used photomerge in CS3 to combine the two images. I am NOT happy with the results of photomerge and intend to invest in Registar in the near future. This should greatly improve the quality of the merges images. Right now there are several issues visible throughout the image cause by the merge.

The image was processed with a pseudo L-RGB approach.

When finished I plan to print and hang in my living room! It should print to about 3 feet wide.