The January astrophotography period is ending. It was marred by clouds on too many nights. I wouldn’t mind some clouds if they would bring rain, but that didn’t happen. All in all, I still got some good images. I have moved back to the county campground now. The weather forecast for this week is looking good for rain, finally. I hope it rains a lot!!!
I spent one night on M81, Bode’s Galaxy. Of course, I have done this galaxy before but not with guiding. It is one of the most photogenic galaxies in the universe, as seen from Earth. I spent about an hour one night imaging this area of the Virgo Galaxy Cluster. There are dozens of galaxies in this image. This image only covers about .5 degree of the sky. The galaxies that look so close together are separated by millions of light years. It is really hard to comprehend the immensity of the universe. NGC 2403, also known as the Jewel of Camelopardilis, in the constellation of Camelopardilis. Known for its many and large h-alpha star-forming regions, the galaxy is similar in size to our Milky Way Galaxy. It is about 8 million light years away. I tried to make the large nebulas as visible as I can, but they are difficult at this image size. Had to do it. The Great Nebula in Orion. I can never get tired of this one!
2 replies on “January Grand Finale”
I had to read up on these galaxies and nebula. So much to learn. These are beautiful photos. I didn’t realize the Great Nebula in Orion was bright enough to see with the naked eye. I think we’ll try looking at that with the binocs next time we’re out.
The Orion Nebula can be easily seen with the unaided eye, but even with a telescope it just looks like a light gray area of nebulosity. Still, it is fun to get out and look.
2 replies on “January Grand Finale”
I had to read up on these galaxies and nebula. So much to learn. These are beautiful photos. I didn’t realize the Great Nebula in Orion was bright enough to see with the naked eye. I think we’ll try looking at that with the binocs next time we’re out.
The Orion Nebula can be easily seen with the unaided eye, but even with a telescope it just looks like a light gray area of nebulosity. Still, it is fun to get out and look.