Observation by Graham Winstanley: M31

Uploaded by

Graham Winstanley

Observer

Graham Winstanley

Observed

2017 Nov 17 - 23:34

Uploaded

2017 Nov 26 - 20:24

Objects

The Andromeda Galaxy (M31)

Planetarium overlay









Constellation

Andromeda

Field centre

RA: 00h46m
Dec: +40°57'
Position angle: +96°41'

Field size

6°26' × 4°07'

Equipment
  • Canon 1100D
  • Helios 135mm lens
  • EQ1 with RA drive
Exposure

19 minutes of 10s

Location

Bassingham, Lincolnshire

Target name

M31 Andromeda galaxy

Title

M31

About this image

This may not be the best M31 on here but it demonstrates what can be done with basic equipment. 

Tracking was not working very well due to a low battery in the RA motor so subs were limited to 10s but still had some trailing. The lens was bought online for 11.50 and attaches with an M42 to Canon adapter but does require care with focus as it overshoots infinity. The poor tracking resulted in the target drifting across the fov.

Processing was part DSS and Part Pixinsight. PI refused to stack the images (probably not good enough for PI) but Deep Sky Stacker managed the job. Heavy cropping was needed to remove signs of drifting round the borders. Darks were used but no flats.

The star shapes are horrible and there is some rotation but the galaxy is surprisingly good considering the problems.

I am looking forward to having another try with a new battery.

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