Description: reworked original data with some Ha data mixed in
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Description:
IC342 (Caldwell 5), located in the constellation Camelopardalis, is an intermediate spiral galaxy. This is a relatively difficult target to process secondary to its location in the dusty areas near the galactic equator. Despite its actual size (up to two-thirds the diameter of the full moon) and actual brightness it is difficult to observe, leading to its nickname "The Hidden Galaxy". According to internet sources, it is readily detectable with binoculars, though I was unable to detect it from my location during the new moon. The dust at its location also makes it difficult to determine distance. Estimates range from 7-11 mly. Though it was originally thought by Edwin Hubble to be part of our local group, it was later determined not to a member, and is instead one of the brightest members of one of our closest Galaxy Groups, The IC342/Maffei Group. The Galaxy has an HII nucleus and a diameter of 75,000 light-years.*
I have made several attempts to process this target effectively. I started with an RGB image and added Ha to give better definition to the nebula throughout the galaxy. I this version, I am pleased with the color and detail, though I continue to be somewhat dissatisfied with the core, which is too bright. For now I am going to table this and move on to other projects. Maybe with more processing experience I can achieve a better result but I do believe this is one of my best images to date. I find these difficult and dim targets the most satisfying to collect data on and to see them come together in processing.
*reference Wikipedia, Astrobin
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| ZWO ASI2600MM Pro |
| Cloudy Nights |
| Broadband under Bortle 7/8/9 |
| Texas Astronomy |
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