Animation I made last night of Mars

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    Animation Mars
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SUMMARY

The forum discussion centers on an animation of Mars created using four images captured over five hours. The initial image was taken at an altitude of 27 degrees, resulting in a blurry appearance. The user plans to retake the images in two weeks when Mars will be at a higher altitude of 40 degrees. Additionally, the user discusses challenges with image alignment, oversaturation, and color balance, and expresses a desire to learn masking techniques for better image blending.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of astrophotography techniques
  • Familiarity with image processing software
  • Knowledge of using a 135mm f2.8 lens for astrophotography
  • Basic concepts of astronomical objects like Mars and the North American Nebula
NEXT STEPS
  • Research techniques for improving image alignment in astrophotography
  • Learn about color correction methods in image processing software
  • Study masking techniques for blending images at different exposures
  • Explore options for purchasing telescopes suitable for astrophotography
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Astronomy enthusiasts, amateur astrophotographers, and individuals interested in improving their skills in capturing and processing celestial images.

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Attahed is an animation I made last night of Mars. It's 4 images taken over about 5 hours. Since Mars was at 27 degrees altitude (about 7:35) when I took the first pic, it's pretty blurry. If I can, I'll try again in 2 weeks when it'll only be a little smaller, but will be at 40 degrees by that time.
In between shots of Mars, I took some wide-angle photos of a few other things. I'm still working on processing them...
edit: There were some alignment issues in the animation, plus I realized it was oversaturated and the color wasn't balanced right. I fixed it as best I could. I'm going to try again if I get a good night next week...
 

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Last edited:
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More from last Wednesday:

Both are with my 135mm f2.8 lens, piggybacked and my DSI.

First is the North American Nebula, minus Canada. I'll get the rest later. It's 20x90s.

Next is Orions sword, 20x60s. I need to learn to do masks so I can blend images at different exposures and bring out the dim details without washing out the bright ones...
 

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Wow russ thanks for the images, I am still undecided (due to bills and scheduling) which way i should go, go out and get a $500ish telescope, take a trip out to eastern WA on a regular basis, or join the Seattle astronomy club. I'm thinking both, but with school coming up in January and me being on call at my job during the "off hours" who knows. But thank you for the wonderful pics.
 

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