I am writing to propose my latest astronomical mosaic for consideration as the Astronomy Picture of the Day. This image, captured with meticulous detail, showcases the breathtaking beauty of the dark and reflection nebulas within the constellation of Cepheus.
The mosaic is composed of three panels, each meticulously crafted using 32 luminance exposures of 600 seconds, 64 RGB exposures of 300 seconds, and 40 H-alpha exposures of 600 seconds. This extensive effort ensures a depth and richness of detail that highlights the spectacular features of the nebulas.
The featured nebulas are LDN 1251, LDN 1235 (also known as the Shark Nebula), and VDB 152. LDN 1251, with its dense clouds of dark dust, appears to float ethereally against the cosmic backdrop. LDN 1235, resembling a shark navigating through the stars, offers a majestic and striking view. VDB 152, a reflection nebula, introduces a bluish tint as it reflects the light from nearby stars.
The mosaic was captured using a sophisticated setup of two RedCat 51 telescopes paired with two ZWO ASI 2600 cameras—one color and one monochrome. The integration of monochrome imaging and the use of Ha exposures to emphasize hydrogen emissions contribute to the mosaic's exceptional detail, with vivid color nuances and deeply outlined dark clouds.
I believe this image would make a compelling addition to your Astronomy Picture of the Day, offering viewers a captivating glimpse into the wonders of the universe.
Thank you for considering my submission. I look forward to the possibility of sharing this image with a broader audience through your esteemed platform.
Full resolution at:
https://www.astrobin.com/full/kot7my/0/
Best regards,
Simone Curzi
My Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/simone_curzi_skylover/
Equipment
Imaging Telescopes Or Lenses
William Optics RedCat 51 II
Imaging Cameras
ZWO ASI2600MC Pro · ZWO ASI2600MM Pro
Mounts
Sky-Watcher EQ6
Filters
Antlia EDGE H-alpha 4.5nm 2" · Antlia Luminance 2"
Software
Pleiades Astrophoto PixInsight
Sept. 3 - 5, 2024
Sept. 11 - 13, 2024
Frames:
192×300″(16h)
Antlia EDGE H-alpha 4.5nm 2": 120×600″(20h)
Antlia Luminance 2": 96×600″(16h)
Integration:
52h
Avg. Moon age:
4.95 days
Avg. Moon phase:
32.61%
Locations: Mattinata, Puglia, Italy bortle 4
Data source: Backyard
