Stargazing Deep Space Imaging and stacking images for less noise

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Stacking multiple exposures significantly improves deep space imaging by enhancing the signal-to-noise ratio, which is crucial in low-light conditions. Various software options exist for stacking, ranging from free tools like Deep Sky Stacker to more advanced programs like PixInsight and Nebulosity, each with unique features and learning curves. Users often face challenges with color balance and saturation in stacked images, particularly due to the effects of light pollution and sensor noise. Techniques such as adjusting RGB color curves and using software like Photoshop or ImageJ can help refine the final image quality. Overall, mastering stacking and post-processing techniques is essential for achieving clearer and more detailed astrophotography results.
  • #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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