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Cocoon Nebula - stacking multiple stacks

Posted: Wed Sep 11, 2019 11:38 pm
by umasscrew39
Tried stacking multiple SC live stacks (30x60s and 32x60s) for the first time from 2 different evenings in PI using its StarAlignment tool. I am sure the AP purest will think this is very bad but I was surprised how well it worked and this is only 1 hr total integration. Used a C11" EdgeHD 2 f/7 with a ZWO ASI294MC pro cam and an Optolong L-eNhance filter.

Re: Cocoon Nebula - stacking multiple stacks

Posted: Thu Sep 12, 2019 7:36 am
by turfpit
That is a good start for first time trying out the method. I think it is a valid technique for building up data over several nights when an object is approaching the meridian or there are only small windows of decent sky available.

Have a look at what can be achieved using this strategy - note the camera settings. viewtopic.php?t=561

Dave

Re: Cocoon Nebula - stacking multiple stacks

Posted: Thu Sep 12, 2019 10:00 am
by umasscrew39
Dave

I think I am missing something. This is a different sensor than mine and I do not see any camera settings on the link you provide. His Astrobin posting also does not have any camera settings listed.

Re: Cocoon Nebula - stacking multiple stacks

Posted: Thu Sep 12, 2019 11:07 am
by turfpit
Ok different sensor but it was more about showing what the technique can achieve.

Link tells me
  • 5 stacks
  • each stack 60x30s
  • gain 74%
Dave

Re: Cocoon Nebula - stacking multiple stacks

Posted: Thu Sep 12, 2019 1:38 pm
by umasscrew39
ok- got it

Pretty much what I did. Now that I know this works, going to try many stacks and see how it improves. Lots of new stuff going on as PI is massively complex with lots of options but I am not one to go crazy. I have no interest in 15-20 hr integration times and enjoy live viewing with friends. Besides, I do not get enough clear nights per year to do 20 hrs integration per object. That would probably put me at 5 objects a year!!

Re: Cocoon Nebula - stacking multiple stacks

Posted: Thu Sep 12, 2019 1:47 pm
by turfpit
As regards PI, I found these task oriented tutorials useful https://www.lightvortexastronomy.com/tutorials.html. I am not ready for that step yet.

Dave

Re: Cocoon Nebula - stacking multiple stacks

Posted: Thu Sep 12, 2019 1:51 pm
by umasscrew39
Exactly what I have been doing. I have the book as well - all 400 pages of it but the videos are excellent.

Re: Cocoon Nebula - stacking multiple stacks

Posted: Thu Sep 12, 2019 2:01 pm
by turfpit
I suppose it is a good way to occupy those rare cloudy nights :lol: