Celestial hemisphere:  Northern  ·  Constellation: Canes Venatici (CVn)  ·  Contains:  IC 4263  ·  IC 4278  ·  M 51  ·  NGC 5194  ·  NGC 5195  ·  Whirlpool galaxy
M51: Whirlpool galaxy and companion HaLRGB, Arvind H.
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M51: Whirlpool galaxy and companion HaLRGB

M51: Whirlpool galaxy and companion HaLRGB, Arvind H.
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M51: Whirlpool galaxy and companion HaLRGB

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Description

I'm re-posting as a separate image (vs. revision) since I re-processed this using LRGB combination and the result is considerably different—and one that I admittedly like more. The other processing steps used are identical with mild variation in parameters tuned to the specific image I started with.

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I've always been fascinated by this interacting pair of galaxies at the eyepiece of my Dob. They're usually one of my first observing targets during galaxy season. I'm pleased to have finally been able to image the pair— and a host of other Ursa Major galaxies seen in the background.

Given the face on orientation I was tempted to add Ha data even though imaging with a DSLR. I captured Ha from my Bortle 7/8 backyard on a couple of warm nights resulting in less than great data which I have nevertheless attempted to use.

This is my first attempt at using Bayer drizzle for OSC images in PI. I like the result but unsure if it is a material improvement in resolution over the usual approach. I will upload a version using the traditional debayering-before-integration-method for comparison as well.

More at : https://www.starvind.com/astrophotography/m51-whirlpool-galaxy/

Feedback welcome. Thanks for looking and Clear Skies!

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Revisions

  • M51: Whirlpool galaxy and companion HaLRGB, Arvind H.
    Original
  • M51: Whirlpool galaxy and companion HaLRGB, Arvind H.
    B
  • M51: Whirlpool galaxy and companion HaLRGB, Arvind H.
    C
  • Final
    M51: Whirlpool galaxy and companion HaLRGB, Arvind H.
    D
  • M51: Whirlpool galaxy and companion HaLRGB, Arvind H.
    E
  • M51: Whirlpool galaxy and companion HaLRGB, Arvind H.
    F

B

Description: Up close and personal

Uploaded: ...

C

Description: Cropped some

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D

Description: Increased contrast and color sat

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E

Description: Close up

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F

Description: Annotated with all the NGC and PGC galaxies in the background. Always fascinating to see the many DSOs captured besides the main subject of the pic. Readable in full res.

Uploaded: ...

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M51: Whirlpool galaxy and companion HaLRGB, Arvind H.