Deep Space Imaging and stacking images for less noise

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Discussion Overview

The discussion focuses on the advantages of stacking images for deep space imaging to reduce noise and improve image quality. Participants explore various software options for stacking and post-processing, as well as challenges related to color balance and white balance in the resulting images.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants discuss the benefits of stacking exposures to enhance the signal-to-noise ratio, particularly in low-light astrophotography.
  • Dave mentions various software options for stacking, including Deep Sky Stacker, Photoshop, Nebulosity, and Pixinsight, highlighting their features and learning curves.
  • Several participants express challenges with white balance and colorimetry in their stacked images, noting issues with desaturation and color balance restoration.
  • One participant suggests using the "levels" function in Photoshop to adjust the background color after stacking, while another describes the impact of skyglow on their images.
  • There are mentions of using Registax for planetary image stacking, with some participants noting its limitations with large files.
  • Participants share their experiences with different software and techniques, including the use of RAW images and the importance of color temperature adjustments.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the benefits of stacking images but express differing views on the best software and techniques for achieving optimal color balance and noise reduction. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best practices for addressing color issues in stacked images.

Contextual Notes

Some participants mention specific challenges related to color balance and the effects of light pollution on their images, indicating that their results may vary based on conditions and techniques used.

  • #31
davenn said:
OK I see my misunderstanding LOL till I did comparisons of star fields, I didn't realize it was so faint on your image ... so big arrow to hilite it for others reading the thread ...

Yeah, it's still down in the dirt. I can pull it out more, but then the non-perfect background subtraction becomes more noticeable as well. I'm also becoming more painfully aware of the display differences between a Mac and WinBlows.
 
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  • #32
Andy Resnick said:
I'm also becoming more painfully aware of the display differences between a Mac and WinBlows.

in what way ?
 
  • #33
davenn said:
in what way ?

I think it's 'gamma'- contrast at the low end is higher on my Mac than my windows box.
 
  • #34
That's not really Microsofts fault now is it?
 
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  • #35
glappkaeft said:
That's not really Microsofts fault now is it?

maybe not
one would have to do a comparison with the same brand monitors and both calibrated

Andy, unless your monitors were calibrated, you can't really do a comparison, there's just too much variation

here's a professional calibration tool ...
http://www.digitalcamerawarehouse.com.au/prod8682.htm
Dave
 
  • #36
Yeah, I make sure my my main photo editing screen (a DELL Ultrasharp U2711H) is well calibrated. It is sometimes a bit annoying since a well calibrated screen is rather bright if you turn the lights down in the room.
 
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  • #37
I believe Canon offers a good AP option with their more recent DSL series. I use APT as my interface, which also appears a good option. I, of course, welcome dissenting opinions.
 
  • #38
Chronos said:
I use APT as my interface

not sure what you are referring to ?

... yeah, that didn't really work out on the 5D s(sr) ... the filtering was still too strong

Nikon did a much better job with the D810A which was designed exclusively for AP
with a filtering system in it that specifically enhances the appropriate band pass areas eg Ha
(Hydrogen Alpha)
Because of the huge cost of the D810A and the fact I would have to buy new lenses, I went the other way and bought a Canon 700D and did my own filter mod. This removed the IR filter and the colour bandwidth limiting filter giving a big increase in sensitivity to the red end of the spectrumDave
 
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  • #40

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