First Try at DSLR Imaging: M57

Last night I made my first try at imaging. I used an unmodified Canon 350D at prime focus through an AP 130 F/6. Mount is a Losmandy G11 (non Gemini), no guiding. The image consists of three 5 minute exposures at ISO 800, stacked in Registax, and processed with Paintshop Pro. I did no dark frames or dark subtration...that lesson is for another night. I imaged from my light polluted back yard in the SF Bay Area. Nearby street lights and sky glow made the unprocessed images bright orange, which made me think, initially at least, that something was wrong with the camera. Next time I'll use a Skyglow filter, or is there something better for filtering out skyglow?

To say I'm a beginner at this overstates my imaging expertise. I'm looking for tips and suggestions and consider this a very small first step, so criticize away and tell me how to get tighter, non elongated stars and more presentable images.

Rob Mackie

Attached Image:

I think thats pretty good for a first image.
Stars don't look too bad for not guiding. Shorter exposures may help to tighten them up a bit and it will cut down on some of the light pollution. If your imaging with lots of light pollution, a LP filter is a must. The Ring is an object that needs a longer focal length to get a decent image of it.
Try M13 or M27. They're larger and looks good with short exposures.

Hi Rob. Great start..... I don't recall getting anything recognizable as stars on my first night of imaging. The light pollution will be a problem, but filters can help. I have no particular expertise in this area, and thus will allow other more informed folks to offer advice. The real solution to rounder stars is autoguiding, but that costs $. If you are trying to save money, I suggest trying shorter exposures and adding them into a final image. That will keep your stars tighter. Good Luck!
Tyler

Hi Rob,

Welcome to the dark side of astronomy: imaging 8) !

That's an excellent first try! Other than the excellent suggestions already given, I'd also check out focusing (Hartmann masks, software-based focus aides, etc.).

Eric