North America Nebula NGC 7000

My first attempt at the North America Nebula was in July 2019. I had modified a Canon EOS 1100D by removing the infra-red filter and not knowing any better left the sensor exposed to the elements. The camera is a treasured object and still providing me many wonderful nebula pictures.

My first NGC 7000 31st July 2019

I remember being so happy with this first picture and seeing deep space for the first time with a picture that I took. Astrophotography can be a frustrating hobby as simple mistakes on a cold night can ruin everything but when it works it is so satisfying. Being able to send the pictures to fellow enthusiasts and receiving feedback is a wonderful feeling. A large part of the sharing is to receive critical reviews as this is the only way to improve. This picture is a combination of 100 x 2 minute exposures and was taken with a modified Canon 1100D, 100-400mm lens with focal length set to 200mm.

My latest picture of NGC 7000 25th June 2020

One year later, same camera and a new telescope I am super happy. This picture has a combined exposure of 6 hours. Learning to autoguide allowing longer exposures played a major role. There are halo’s around the stars and as always room for improvement but the difference in one year is stunning. I find that the star colours in this picture are amazing and the nebula is more clear than the previous picture.

To the right of the picture the Pelican Nebula IC 5070 can be clearly seen. This picture was taken in June when there was little or no dark night which makes it even more amazing.

As NGC 7000 is visible for the complete year I cannot wait for another try when the nights are darker. This picture is a combination of 40 x 90secs, 30 x 2 min and 12 x 5 min exposures was taken with a modified Canon 1100D using a TS-Optics 60mm 360mm refractor.

Watch this space for improvements when the nights are darker …….

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