This is my first monochrome imaging of M81/M82 (Bode's Galaxy and The Cigar Galaxy respectively).  I imaged these Messier objects over two nights a week apart for an approximate total integration time of 14 hrs.

I included both Luminance and Ha in my imaging set; the nights were clear but seeing was average due to upper level turbulence.  I may add another night yet to the image set; as can be seen in the comparison image of the cropped and uncropped images, the two nights (doubled the integration time from 7 hrs to 14 hrs) has provided more fine detail in both M81 and M82.  The images on the right are 14 hrs of integration, the images on the left are 7 hrs.



The 14 hr dataset was easier to post process with better signal/lower noise in the LRGB frame sets vs the 7 hr dataset.  I tried to duplicate the post processing steps but the 'better' / deeper dataset had different requirements in post processing to some extent than the shallower one night dataset. 

My "standard" workflow in PixInsight - WBPP, Gradient Correction, BlurXterminator, SPCC for the RGB frames (followed by another application of Gradient Correction and BlurXterminator to the RGB image).  StarXterminator to all "BXT" treated images.  Stretch/saturate the RGB Stars only frame, then SCNR/CorrectMagentaStars script application.  Stretch/prepare the L and Ha starless frames for use as both mask and 'detail' enhancement.  Begin post processing of combined color image with Curve/Histogram tweaks, ColorMask application, Saturation, HDR.  NXT applied to all "final" frames.  L_mask applied as mask to RGB starless image, then use LRGB channel combination to add L_Mask to image.
Apply Ha_Mask as mask, then add to LRGB image with HaRGB PixelMath script.

Tweak/crop image to distribution.

I look at this workflow and it sounds rather routine now.  But it took time, trial and effort, and countless hrs of tutorial YouTube/AdamBlock/AIC/VisibleDark/etc. videos to gain the knowledge/experience to create this as well as adapt on the fly to abnormal results or issues.  I've also learned the hard way that some video tutorials age well, others don't fit well any longer due to the changes in PixInsight and the available tools that has occurred since the videos were created.  

I do think this is vastly improved over my OSC imaging of this target a couple of years ago.  IMO - YMMV.

Let me know what you think, please like and comment below.

CS
Clayton

Information from Wikipedia on the two primary Messier objects in this image, M81 and M82.

Messier 81 (also known as NGC 3031 or Bode's Galaxy) is a grand design spiral galaxy about 12 million light-years away in the constellation Ursa Major. It has a D25 isophotal diameter of 29.44 kiloparsecs (96,000 light-years).  Because of its relative proximity to the Milky Way galaxy, large size, and active galactic nucleus (which harbors a 70 million M☉ supermassive black hole), Messier 81 has been studied extensively by professional astronomers. The galaxy's large size and relatively high brightness also makes it a popular target for amateur astronomers.[7] In late February 2022, astronomers reported that M81 may be the source of FRB 20200120E, a repeating fast radio burst.

Link to Wikipedia Information on M81

Messier 82 (also known as NGC 3034, Cigar Galaxy or M82) is a starburst galaxy approximately 12 million light-years away in the constellation Ursa Major. It is the second-largest member of the M81 Group, with the D25 isophotal diameter of 12.52 kiloparsecs (40,800 light-years).  It is about five times more luminous than the Milky Way and its central region is about one hundred times more luminous.  The starburst activity is thought to have been triggered by interaction with neighboring galaxy M81. As one of the closest starburst galaxies to Earth, M82 is the prototypical example of this galaxy type.  SN 2014J, a type Ia supernova, was discovered in the galaxy on 21 January 2014.  In 2014, in studying M82, scientists discovered the brightest pulsar yet known, designated M82 X-2.

Link to Wikipedia information on M82

Messier 81 and Messier 82 are considered ideal for viewing using binoculars and small telescopes.  The two objects are generally not observable to the unaided eye, although highly experienced amateur astronomers may be able to see Messier 81 under exceptional observing conditions with a very dark sky.  Telescopes with apertures of 8 inches (20 cm) or larger are needed to distinguish structures in the galaxy.