The Dark Side Observatory
in Weatherly, Pennsylvania, USA
Welcme to the Dark Side Observatory in Weatherly, Pennsylvania, USA. The Dark Side Observatory is the personal observatory of Tom and Jane Wildoner. It was constructed in 2017 and continues to be modified as time permits. The links below present some of our images, clicking on an image will open a new window with the full resolution. IMAGE USE: We have a liberal policy in the use of our images, you may share/use the image as long as the image is not edited in any way and credit is given to Tom and Jane Wildoner, The Dark Side Observatory.
Questions or comments can be addressed to thedarksideobservatory@gmail.com
You can follow us on FLICKR and on ASTROBIN. I also post images on my Facebook account at https://www.facebook.com/tom.wildoner and https://www.facebook.com/thedarksideobservatory We also routinely post the latest images on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tomwildoner/
Our images have been used on UNIVERSE TODAY, EARTHSKY, The Washington Post, Sky and Telescope, Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation, Earth Science Picture of the Day (EPOD), Amateur Astronomy Picture of the Day, WNEP News, BBC Sky at Night Magazine, SyFy.com, Let's Talk Science, NASA, Amateur Astronomy Image of the Dat (AAPOD2) and numerous online media outlets, E-Magazines and educational outlets.
RELEASE DATE: 27 January 2023
The Soul Nebula IC1871 in Hubble Palette
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, Optolong L-eNhance 2” Filter, three panels each 36 x 300 seconds (9 hours total) guided exposures, ZWO EAF, ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: October 21 and 27, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 24 January 2023
The Head of the Soul Nebula IC1871
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, Optolong L-eNhance 2” Filter, 30 x 300 second guided exposures, ZWO EAF, ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: October 21, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 21 January 2023
Asteroids 359 Georgia and 325 Heidelberga
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, 60 x 60 second guided exposures, focused with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using Tycho. Image Date: January 16, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 19 January 2023
Comet 29P/Schwassmann-Wachmann 1 Observation
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 60 x 60 seconds at -10C, processed using Tycho. Image Date: January 16, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W95), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 18 January 2023
Comet 119P/Parker-Hartley Observation
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, 40 x 60 second guided exposures, focused with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using Tycho. Image Date: January 16, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).

RELEASE DATE: 17 January 2023
Comet C/2022 E3 (ZTF) in Motion
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, 60 x 60 second guided exposures, focused with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using Tycho. Image Date: January 16, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 16 January 2023
C/2022 E3 (ZTF) Observation
You can see the thin ion tails extending to the upper left, likely the result of a variable solar wind on ions ejected by the icy comet nucleus. The comet's white dust tail is visible to the left and much shorter. The green glow is the comet's coma, caused by glowing carbon gas. Comet ZTF is expected to pass nearest the Earth in early February, after which it should dim dramatically. (REF: https://apod.nasa.gov/apod/ap230109.html).
From EarthSky.org “Astronomers call this comet C/2022 E3 (ZTF). It got its name because it was the third such object to be discovered in the fifth half-month (A, B, C, D, E) of 2022. The ZTF stands for the Zwicky Transient Facility, which uses the 48-inch Samuel Oschin robotic telescope, located at Mt. Palomar in southern California.”
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, 60 x 60 second guided exposures, focused with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using DSS and PixInsight. Image Date: January 16, 2023. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 14 January 2023
Mira-Type Variable Star R Andromedea
Latest observation data on Mira-Type variable star R Andromedea. According to the ASAS-SN Variable Stars Database, this star has a period of 219 days. I’ve selected four long-period variable stars to observe and record over the next several years. The graph shows observations on this star over the last 75 days. You can check these observations any time HERE.
RELEASE DATE: 10 January 2023
Elliptical Galaxy Messier 105 (M105) and Friends
Observation data (J2000 epoch) for M105Constellation: LeoRight ascension: 10h 47m 49.600sDeclination: +12° 34′ 53.87″Distance: 36.6 Mly (11.22 Mpc)Group or cluster: Leo I GroupApparent magnitude (V): 9.3
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 160 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats, processed using DSS. Image Date: February 26, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W95), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
FLICK EXPLORER IMAGE OF THE DAY - January 11, 2023
RELEASE DATE: 7 January 2023
Arp 229 Elliptical Galaxy in Pisces
Tech Specs: Meade 12” LX-90, Antares Focal Reducer, ZWO AS071 running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, ZWO ASIAir Plus, ZWO EAF, 108 x 60 second exposures, darks from the library and flats after the imaging session. Image Date: October 29, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
ANNOTATED IMAGE
RELEASE DATE: 4 January 2023
Arp 99/Hickson 93 Galaxy Group in Pegasus
Tech Specs: Meade 12” LX-90, Antares Focal Reducer, ZWO AS071 running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, ZWO ASIAir Plus, ZWO EAF, 108 x 60 second exposures, darks from the library and flats after the imaging session. Image Date: October 29, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 1 January 2023
Messier 36 - Open Cluster in Auriga
Distance: 4,340 light year.Radius: 7 light yearRight ascension: 05h 36m 18.0sDeclination: +34° 08′ 24″Apparent Magnitude: 6.3
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, 54 x 60 second guided exposures, focused with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight and DeepSkyStacker. Image Date: November 22, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 29 December 2022
The Moon - December 29, 2022
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX Pier Mounted, best 20% of 1000 frames, focus with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using SharpCap Pro, AutoStakkert and Registax. Image Date: December 29, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 26 December 2022
Flaming Star (IC405) and Tadpole Nebula (IC410)
Tech Specs: Williams Optics REDCAT51, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at 0C, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount, Optolong L-eNhance filter (2”), 24 x 300 second exposures, guided using a ZWO 30mm f/4 mini guide scope and ZWO 120 Mini, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro, ProAstroGear Black-CAT and ZWO EAF, stacked in DSS and processed using PixInsight. Image date: September 23, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
FLICK EXPLORER IMAGE OF THE DAY - December 27, 2022
RELEASE DATE: 22 December 2022
Star Forming Region Sh2-239 in Taurus
LDN 1551 contains a total amount of material equivalent to about 50 times the mass of the Sun, and inside it you will find a dozen of pre-main sequence stars. Star formation activity has caused the mix of dust and colors in the nebulae. (Ref: http://annesastronomynews.com)
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, 5 hours 6 minutes using 60 second guided exposures, darks from the library and flats at the end of imaging, focused with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight. Image Date: November 21, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 19 December 2022
Crescent Nebula (NGC 6888 - Sharpless 105)
Here is a view of the Crescent Nebula (NGC 6888, Sharpless 105) located in the constellation Cygnus. The Crescent Nebula is about 5,000 light years away from Earth and was formed by the central star shedding its outer layers. According to NASA, “Burning fuel at a prodigious rate and near the end of its stellar life this star should ultimately go out with a bang in a spectacular supernova explosion”.
Observation data: J2000.0 epochRight ascension: 20h 12m 7sDeclination: +38° 21.3′Distance: 5,000 lyApparent magnitude (V): +7.4Apparent dimensions (V): 18′ × 12′Constellation: Cygnus
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at 0C, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount, Optolong L-eNhance filter (2”), 54 x 300 second exposures, guided using a ZWO 30mm f/4 mini guide scope and ZWO 120 Mini, focus with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: May 29, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 17 December 2022
Variable Star R Andromeda
Tech Specs: Meade 12” LX-90 and 8” Orion RC, ZWO AS071 running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, ZWO ASIAir Plus, ZWO EAF, 30 x 60 second exposures, darks from the library and flats after the imaging session. Image Date: Nov 14, 2022 and Dec 14 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 14 December 2022
Comet 29P/Schwassmann-Wachmann
Tech Specs: Meade 12” LX-90, Antares Focal Reducer, ZWO AS071 running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, ZWO ASIAir Plus, ZWO EAF, 60 x 60 second exposures, darks from the library and flats after the imaging session, DeepSkyStacker and Tycho Tracker. Image Date: December 14, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
VIDEO HERE
RELEASE DATE: 14 December 2022
Comet C/2021 Y1 (ATLAS)
Tech Specs: Meade 12” LX-90, Antares Focal Reducer, ZWO AS071 running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, ZWO ASIAir Plus, ZWO EAF, 60 x 60 second exposures, darks from the library and flats after the imaging session, DeepSkyStacker and Tycho Tracker. Image Date: December 14, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
VIDEO HERE
RELEASE DATE: 13 December 2022
The California Nebula - NGC1499 Through High Clouds
Observation data: J2000.0 epochRight ascension: 04h 03m 18.00sDeclination: +36° 25′ 18.0″Distance: 1,000 lyApparent magnitude (V): 6.0Apparent dimensions (V): 2.5° longConstellation: Perseus
Tech Specs: Williams Optics REDCAT51, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at 0C, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount, Optolong L-eNhance filter (2”), 30 x 300 second exposures, guided using a ZWO 30mm f/4 mini guide scope and ZWO 120 Mini, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro, ProAstroGear Black-CAT and ZWO EAF, stacked in DSS and processed using PixInsight. Image date: September 23, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 10 December 2022
The Ghost Nebula (Sh2-136)
Also cataloged as Bok globule CB230, the core of the dark cloud on the right side of this image is collapsing and is likely a binary star system in the early stages of formation, identified as BD+67 1300. Bok globules are dark clouds of dense cosmic dust and gas within star-forming regions in which star formation usually takes place. They most commonly result in the formation of double or multiple star systems.
The name Sharpless comes from a catalog of 312 emission nebulae (H II regions). The first edition was published by Stewart Sharpless in 1953 with 142 objects (Sh1) and the second and final version was published in 1959 with 312 objects (Sh2). (http://annesastronomynews.com/annes-picture-of-the-day-the-ghost-nebula/)
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, 4 hours 36 minutes using 60 second guided exposures over two nights, darks from the library and flats at the end of imaging, focused with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight. Image Date: October 29 and November 21, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 7 December 2022
Open Cluster Messier 34 in Perseus
Observation data (J2000.0 epoch)Constellation: PerseusRight ascension: 02h 42.1mDeclination: +42° 46′Distance: 1,500 light yearsApparent magnitude (V): 5.5Apparent dimensions (V): 35.0′
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, 54 x 60 second guided exposures, focused with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight. Image Date: October 29, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 4 December 2022
The Triangulum Galaxy - Messier 33
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Constellation: TriangulumRight ascension: 01h 33m 50.02sDeclination: +30° 39′ 36.7″Distance (comoving): 970 kpc (3.2 Mly)Apparent magnitude (V): 5.72
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, two panel mosaic each 93 x 60 second guided exposures, darks from the library and flats at the end of imaging, focused with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight. Image Date: November 22, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 1 December 2022
Waxing Gibbous Moon - December 1, 2022
Tech Specs: Meade LX-90, Antares Focal Reducer, ZWO AS071 running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, best 20% of 5000 images, captured with SharpCap Pro. Image Date: December 1, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
FLICK EXPLORER IMAGE OF THE DAY - December 2, 2022
RELEASE DATE: 29 November 2022
The Pleiades - Messier 45
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Constellation: TaurusRight ascension: 03h 47m 24sDeclination: +24° 07′ 00″Distance: 444 ly on averageApparent magnitude (V): 1.6Apparent dimensions (V): 110' (arcmin)
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, two panel mosaic each 54 x 60 second guided exposures, focused with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight. Image Date: October 29, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 27 November 2022
Comet C/2021 Y1 (ATLAS) Observation
Object: C/2021 Y1 (ATLAS) Right Asc: 04h 25m 15.6s Decl: 13° 23' 30.0" (J2000)Magnitude: 15.06 Altitude: 60° Solar Elongation: 171.6° Constellation: TauSun distance: 407.39 Million Km Earth distance: 260.77 Million Km* Data from TheSkyLive.com
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, 56 x 60 second guided exposures, focused with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using Tycho Tracker. Image Date: November 26, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
WATCH VIDEO HERE
RELEASE DATE: 26 November 2022
NGC 2261 - Hubble’s Variable Nebula
Observation data: J2000.0 epochRight ascension: 6h 39m 10sDeclination: +8° 45′Distance: 2,500 lyApparent magnitude (V): 9.0Apparent dimensions (V): 2′Constellation: Monoceros
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 108 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats, processed using DSS. Image Date: January 31, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W95), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 25 November 2022
Asteroid 7756 Scientia
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, 60 x 60 second guided exposures, focused with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using Tycho Tracker. Image Date: November 23, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 23 November 2022
Emission Nebula - NGC 1491 (SH2-206)
The blue 11.22 magnitude star (BD +50 ° 886) is illuminating the nebula while its strong stellar wind is “blowing” a bubble in the gas that immediately surrounds it. The intense radiation from the star is also eroding the gas clouds surrounding it. (Ref: http://annesastronomynews.com/photo-gallery-ii/nebulae-clouds/ngc-1491/)
Observation data: J2000 epochSubtype: H II regionRight ascension: 04h 03m 15.9sDeclination: +51° 18′ 54″Distance: 9,800 ± 2,000 lyConstellation: Perseus
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at 0C, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount, Optolong L-eXtreme filter (2”), 37 x 300 second exposures, guided using a ZWO 30mm f/4 mini guide scope and ZWO 120 Mini, focus with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: September 1, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 18 November 2022
The Perseus Double Cluster
Observation data (J2000.0 epoch)Constellation: PerseusRight ascension: 2h 20mDeclination: 57° 08′Distance: 7,460 and 7,640lyApparent magnitude (V): 3.7 and 3.8Apparent dimensions (V): 60′
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, two panel mosaic each 54 x 60 second guided exposures, focused with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight. Image Date: October 29, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W59), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 15 November 2022
Uranus and Several Moon
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 15 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks, processed using Tycho Tracker. Image Date: November 15, 2022 @ 0330 UT. Location: The Dark Side Observatory (W95), Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 14 November 2022
Cygnus X-1 - Black Hole
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at 0C, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount, Optolong L-eXtreme filter (2”), 42 x 300 second exposures, guided using a ZWO 30mm f/4 mini guide scope and ZWO 120 Mini, focus with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: September 1, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 11 November 2022
Open Cluster - Messier 52
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Constellation: CassiopeiaRight ascension: 23h 24m 48.0sDeclination: +61° 35′ 36″Distance: 4.6 klyApparent magnitude (V): 7.3Apparent dimensions (V): 13.0′
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 54 x 60 seconds at 0C plus darks and flats, processed using DSS. Image Date: September 1, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 7 November 2022
Galaxy NGC 3079 in Ursa Major
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Constellation: Ursa MajorRight ascension: 10h 01m 57.8sDeclination: +55° 40′ 47″Distance: 50 MlyApparent magnitude (V): 11.5
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 81 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats, processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: January 26, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 4 November 2022
SH2-091 - The Other Veil Nebula
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at 0C, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount, Optolong L-eXtreme filter (2”), 12 x 300 second exposures, guided using a ZWO 30mm f/4 mini guide scope and ZWO 120 Mini, focus with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: August 24, 2022. Location: GHAAS Dark Site, Eckley, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
FLICK EXPLORER IMAGE OF THE DAY - November 6, 2022
RELEASE DATE: 1 November 2022
Star-Forming Region Sh2-106
Detailed studies of the nebula have also uncovered several hundred brown dwarfs. At purely infrared wavelengths, more than 600 of these sub-stellar objects appear. These "failed" stars weigh less than a tenth of our Sun. Because of their low mass, they cannot produce sustained energy through nuclear fusion like our Sun does. They encompass the nebula in a small cluster. (Ref: https://hubblesite.org/contents/media/images/2011/38/2932-Image.html)
Observation data: J2000.0 epochSubtype: bipolar nebulaRight ascension: 20h 27m 27.1sDeclination: +37° 22′ 39″Distance: 2,000 lyApparent dimensions (V): 3′ × 3′Constellation: Cygnus
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at 0C, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount, Optolong L-eXtreme filter (2”), 42 x 300 second exposures, guided using a ZWO 30mm f/4 mini guide scope and ZWO 120 Mini, focus with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: August 3, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 30 October 2022
The Shrimp Nebula - Sh2-188
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at 0C, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount, Optolong L-eNhance filter (2”), 35 x 300 second exposures, guided using a ZWO 30mm f/4 mini guide scope and ZWO 120 Mini, focus with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: August 18, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 28 October 2022
Supernova SN2022wsp in NGC 7448
Tech Specs: Meade LX-90 12" Telescope with Antares f/6.3 FR, ZWO ASI071 running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, 55 x 60 second guided exposures, focused with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using Tycho Tracker v9.3.7. Image Date: October 28, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 26 October 2022
The Tulip Nebula (Sh2-101)
My processing includes a modified Hubble Palette using PixInsight and added JWST diffraction spikes using Corel PaintShop Pro.
Observation data: J2000.0 epochRight ascension: 20h 00m 29.37sDeclination: 35° 19′ 13.9″Distance: 6,000 lyApparent magnitude (V): 9.0Apparent dimensions (V): 16' x 9'Constellation: CygnusDesignations: Sharpless 101, Sh2-101, Cygnus Star Cloud
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at 0C, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount, Optolong L-eXtreme filter (2”), 42 x 300 second exposures, guided using a ZWO 30mm f/4 mini guide scope and ZWO 120 Mini, focus with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: September 1, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 24 October 2022
Open Cluster NGC 6819
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Constellation: CygnusRight ascension: 19h 41m 18.0sDeclination: +40° 11′ 12″Distance: 7,200 lyApparent magnitude (V): 7.3Apparent dimensions (V): 5'Other designations: Collinder 403
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 46 x 60 seconds at 0C plus darks and flats, processed using DSS. Image Date: August 27, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 23 October 2022
Star Trails 21-22 October 2022
Tech Specs: ZWO ASI462MC, 426 x 60 second unguided exposures, tripod mounted, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight and StarTrails. Image Date: October 21-22, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 21 October 2022
NGC 6820 and NGC 6823
The most striking feature is the trunk-like pillar of dust and gas protruding from the east side of the nebula towards the open cluster, NGC 6823 in the west. The center of the open cluster, which is about 50 light-years across, is about two million years old and is dominated in brightness by many young, bright blue stars, packed in a Trapezium-formed region of about 1.3 x 0.7 light-years across. Outer parts of the cluster, involving pillars of the emission nebula, contain even younger stars.
The huge pillars of gas and dust are probably formed when surrounding gas and dust is pushed and eroded away by stellar winds and radiation from the brightest cluster stars. Remarkable dark globules of gas and dust (Bok globules) are also visible in the nebula. Bok globules, named after the Dutch astronomer Bart Bok (1906-1983), who proposed their existence in the 1940′s, are dark clouds of dense cosmic dust and gas within star-forming regions in which usually star formation takes place. They most commonly result in the formation of double or multiple star systems. (Ref: http://annesastronomynews.com).
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at 0C, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount, Optolong L-eNhance filter (2”), 18 x 300 second exposures, guided using a ZWO 30mm f/4 mini guide scope and ZWO 120 Mini, focus with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: July 30, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 19 October 2022
Supernova 2022wsp in NGC7448
Tech Specs: Meade LX-90 12" Telescope with Antares f/6.3 FR, ZWO ASI071 running at -10C, Celestron CGEM-DX mount, 55 x 60 second guided exposures, focused with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using Tycho Tracker v9.3.7. Image Date: October 19, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 17 October 2022
Interacting Galaxies NGC 5930 and 5929
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Constellation: BoötesRight ascension: 15h 26m 07.987sDeclination: +41° 40′ 33.92″Distance: 133 MlyApparent magnitude (V): 12.2
Tech Specs: Meade 12” LX-90, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, Antares Focal Reducer, ZWO ASI290MC (on Orion 60mm Guidescope), ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 69 x 60 seconds at 0C plus darks and flats, processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: June 4, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 11 October 2022
IC 5070 - The Pelican Nebula
Observation data: J2000.0 epochRight ascension: 20h 50m 48.0sDeclination: +44° 20′ 60.0"Distance: 1,800 lyApparent magnitude (V): 8.0Apparent dimensions (V): 60' x 50'Constellation: Cygnus
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at 0C, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount, Optolong L-eNhance filter (2”), 24 x 300 second exposures, guided using a ZWO 30mm f/4 mini guide scope and ZWO 120 Mini, focus with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: August 2, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 6 October 2022
Merging Galaxies in Draco - Arp 81
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Constellation: DracoRight ascension: 18h 12m 55sDeclination: +68° 21′ 48″Apparent magnitude (B): 13.6
Tech Specs: Meade 12” LX-90, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, Antares Focal Reducer, ZWO ASI290MC (on Orion 60mm Guidescope), ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 96 x 60 seconds at 0C plus darks and flats, processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: June 5, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 3 October 2022
Messier 17 – The Omega Nebula
Observation data: J2000 epochRight ascension: 18h 20m 26sDeclination: −16° 10′ 36″Distance: 5,000–6,000 lyApparent magnitude (V): 6.0Apparent dimensions (V): 11 arcminsConstellation: Sagittarius
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at 0C, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount, Optolong L-eXtreme filter (2”), 12 x 300 second exposures, guided using a ZWO 30mm f/4 mini guide scope and ZWO 120 Mini, focus with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: August 24, 2022. Location: GHAAS Dark Site, Eckley, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 29 September 2022
The Lion Nebula - Sh2-132
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at 0C, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount, Optolong L-eXtreme filter (2”), 42 x 300 seconds per panel, 7 hours total time, guided using a ZWO 30mm f/4 mini guide scope and ZWO 120 Mini, focus with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight, DSS and Microsoft Image Composite Editor. Image Date: August 2 and August 18, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 26 September 2022
The Pinwheel Galaxy – Messier 101 (M101 or NGC 5457)
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Constellation: Ursa MajorRight ascension: 14h 03m 12.6sDeclination: +54° 20′ 57″Distance: 20.9 ± 1.8 MlyApparent magnitude (V): 7.9
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 45 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats, processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: January 31, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
FLICK EXPLORER IMAGE OF THE DAY - September 27, 2022
RELEASE DATE: 23 September 2022
Pickering Triangle in the Veil Nebula
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at 0C, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount, Optolong L-eXtreme filter (2”), 42 x 300 second exposures, guided using a ZWO 30mm f/4 mini guide scope and ZWO 120 Mini, focus with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: August 3, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 11 September 2022
Bubble Nebula - NGC 7635
This is a 2 hour and 35 minute combined exposure and processed in PixInsight in the Hubble palette.
Observation data:J2000 epochRight ascension: 23h 20m 48.3sDeclination: +61° 12′ 06″Distance: 7100 to 11000 lyApparent magnitude (V): ~10Apparent dimensions (V): 15′ × 8′Constellation: Cassiopeia
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at 0C, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount, Optolong L-eXtreme filter (2”), 31 x 300 second exposures, guided using a ZWO 30mm f/4 mini guide scope and ZWO 120 Mini, focus with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: August 31, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
FLICK EXPLORER IMAGE OF THE DAY - September 11, 2022
RELEASE DATE: 7 September 2022
The Ghost of Cassiopeia - IC59 and IC63
These nebulae are a combination of emission and reflection, they are located about 610 light years from Earth and are about 10 light years across. Gamma Cassiopeia provides the radiation to light up this area of dust and gas, eventually dissipating in the area.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at 0C, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount, Optolong L-eNhance filter (2”), 39 x 300 second exposures, guided using a ZWO 30mm f/4 mini guide scope and ZWO 120 Mini, focus with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: July 30, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 4 September 2022
Crescent Nebula (NGC 6888 - Sharpless 105)
Observation data: J2000.0 epochRight ascension: 20h 12m 7sDeclination: +38° 21.3′Distance: 5,000 lyApparent magnitude (V): +7.4Apparent dimensions (V): 18′ × 12′Constellation: Cygnus
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at 0C, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount, Optolong L-eNhance filter (2”), 54 x 300 second exposures, guided using a ZWO 30mm f/4 mini guide scope and ZWO 120 Mini, focus with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: May 29, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 30 August 2022
Deneb - Alpha Cygni
From Wikipedia - Deneb is a first-magnitude star in the constellation of Cygnus, the swan. Deneb is one of the vertices of the asterism known as the Summer Triangle and the "head" of the Northern Cross. It is the brightest star in Cygnus and the 19th brightest star in the night sky, with an average apparent magnitude of +1.25. A blue-white supergiant, Deneb rivals Rigel as the most luminous first-magnitude star. However, its distance, and hence luminosity, is poorly known; its luminosity is somewhere between 55,000 and 196,000 times that of the Sun. Its Bayer designation is α Cygni, which is abbreviated to Alpha Cyg or α Cyg.
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at 5C, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount, Optolong L-eNhance filter (2”), 6 x 300 second exposures, guided using a ZWO 30mm f/4 mini guide scope and ZWO 120 Mini, focus with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: June 24, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 27 August 2022
The Pacman Nebula - NGC 281/Sh2-184
Observation data: J2000.0 epochRight ascension: 00h 52m 59.3sDeclination: +56° 37′ 19″Distance: 9500 lyApparent dimensions (V): 35′Constellation: Cassiopeia
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at 0C, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount, Optolong L-eXtreme filter (2”), 55 x 300 second exposures, guided using a ZWO 30mm f/4 mini guide scope and ZWO 120 Mini, focus with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: August 24, 2022. Location: GHAAS Dark Site, Eckley, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 24 August 2022
The Eastern Veil Nebula - NGC 6992 and 6995
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at 5C, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount, Optolong L-eNhance filter (2”), 12 x 300 second exposures, guided using a ZWO 30mm f/4 mini guide scope and ZWO 120 Mini, focus with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: June 24, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 21 August 2022
Supernova SN2022prv in IC1132
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 27 x 60 seconds at 5C plus darks, stacked in DSS. Image Date: August 21, 2021 @ 0200 HRS (UT). Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 19 August 2022
Globular Cluster Messier 71 (M71 or NGC 6838)
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Class: X-XIConstellation: SagittaRight ascension: 19h 53m 46.49sDeclination: +18° 46′ 45.1″Apparent magnitude (V): 8.2Apparent dimensions (V): 7.2'
Tech Specs: Meade 12” LX-90, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, Antares Focal Reducer, ZWO ASI290MC (on Orion 60mm Guidescope), ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 72 x 60 seconds at 0C plus darks and flats, processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: June 5, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 16 August 2022
Face On Spiral Galaxy NGC2857 (Arp1)
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Constellation: Ursa MajorRight ascension: 09h 24m 37.698sDeclination: +49° 21′ 25.69″ Distance: 225.21 ± 0.00 klyApparent magnitude (V): 12.27
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 82 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats, processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: January 26, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
ANNOTATED IMAGE
RELEASE DATE: 13 August 2022
Globular Cluster Messier 15 (M15 or NGC 7078)
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Class: IVConstellation: PegasusRight ascension: 21h 29m 58.33sDeclination: +12° 10′ 01.2″Distance: 35.69 ± 0.43 klyApparent magnitude (V): 6.2Apparent dimensions (V): 18′.0
Tech Specs: Meade 12” LX-90, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, Antares Focal Reducer, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 50 x 60 seconds at 0C plus darks and flats, processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: June 5, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 8 August 2022
Western Veil Nebula - NGC 6960
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at 0C, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount, Optolong L-eNhance filter (2”), 23 x 300 second exposures, guided using a ZWO 30mm f/4 mini guide scope and ZWO 120 Mini, focus with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: June 4, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 5 August 2022
Globular Cluster Messier 5 (M5 or NGC 5904)
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Class: VConstellation: SerpensRight ascension: 15h 18m 33.22sDeclination: +02° 04′ 51.7″Distance: 24.5 klyApparent magnitude (V): 5.6Apparent dimensions (V): 23′.0
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 81 x 60 seconds at 0C plus darks and flats, processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: March 3, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 2 August 2022
The Cygnus Wall in the North America Nebula (NGC7000)
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at 0C, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount, Optolong L-eNhance filter (2”), 41 x 300 second exposures, guided using a ZWO 30mm f/4 mini guide scope and ZWO 120 Mini, focus with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight, DSS and Luminar NEO. Image Date: June 5, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 30 July 2022
C/2022 E3 (ZTF) Observation - July 29, 2022
From EarthSky.org “Astronomers call this comet C/2022 E3 (ZTF). It got its name because it was the third such object to be discovered in the fifth half-month (A, B, C, D, E) of this year. The ZTF stands for the Zwicky Transient Facility, which uses the 48-inch Samuel Oschin robotic telescope, located at Mt. Palomar in southern California.”
Info at the time the image was taken:
Object: C/2022 E3 (ZTF)Right Asc: 17h 39m 46.1s Dec: 35° 54' 01.1" (J2000) [HMS|Dec]Magnitude: 13.80 Altitude: 75° Solar Elongation: 111.4° Constellation: HerSun distance: 398.20 Million Km Earth distance: 316.93 Million KmRise: 13:34 Transit: 22:12 Set: 06:46 America/New_York
Tech Specs: Meade 12” LX-90, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, Antares Focal Reducer, ZWO ASI290MC (on Orion 60mm Guidescope), ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 69 x 60 seconds at 5C plus darks and flats, processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: July 29, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
51-Minute RAW Video
RELEASE DATE: 28 July 2022
The Black Eye Galaxy – Messier 64
Observation data (J2000 epoch)
- Constellation: Coma Berenices
- Right ascension: 12h 56m 43.696s
- Declination: +21° 40′ 57.57″
- Distance: 17.3 Mly
- Apparent magnitude (V): 8.52
Tech Specs: Meade 12” LX-90, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, Antares Focal Reducer, ZWO ASI290MC (on Orion 60mm Guidescope), ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 96 x 60 seconds at 0C plus darks and flats, processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: June 3, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
FLICK EXPLORER IMAGE OF THE DAY - July 28, 2022
RELEASE DATE: 24 July 2022
Jupiter - July 23, 2022
Tech Specs: Meade 12” LX-90, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, Antares Focal Reducer, ASI290MC, best 20% of 5000 frames, processed using AutoStakkert and Registax. Image Date: July 23, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 23 July 2022
Morning Crescent Moon
Tech Specs: Meade 12” LX-90, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, Antares Focal Reducer, ASI071MC-Pro, best 20% of 500 frames, processed using AutoStakkert and Registax. Image Date: July 23, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 20 July 2022
Comet C/2017 K2 Observation
From EarthSky.org “Astronomers first spotted this comet in 2017 using the Pan-STARRS survey instrument in Hawaii. At the time, they said it was the farthest active inbound comet they’d yet seen. It was between the orbits of Saturn and Uranus when they first saw it. Now it’s in the inner solar system, with closest approach to Earth on July 14. The comet will be closest to the sun several months later, on December 19, 2022. With a small telescope, you should be able to spot the comet throughout the summer.
According to in-the-sky.org, the current visual magnitude is listed as 8.81.
Tech Specs: Meade 12” LX-90, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, Antares Focal Reducer, ZWO ASI290MC, ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, ZWO OAG, 56 x 60 seconds at 5C plus darks and flats, processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: July 19, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 13 July 2022
Arcturus (Alpha Boötis)
Distance to Earth: 36.66 light yearsMagnitude: -0.04Radius: 10.98 million miSurface temperature: 4,290 KConstellation: BoötesSpectral type: K1.5IIIFe-0.5Coordinates: RA 14h 15m 40s | Dec +19° 10′ 56″
Tech Specs: Sky-Watcher Esprit 120ED Telescope, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at 0C, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount, Optolong L-eNhance filter (2”), 6 x 300 second exposures, guided using a ZWO 30mm f/4 mini guide scope and ZWO 120 Mini, focus with a ZWO EAF, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro. Processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: May 29, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 10 July 2022
Spiral Galaxy Messier 106 (M106)
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Constellation: Canes VenaticiRight ascension: 12h 18m 57.5sDeclination: +47° 18′ 14″[1]Redshift: 448 ± 3 km/sDistance: 23.7 ± 1.5 MlyApparent magnitude (V): 8.4Size: 135,000 ly (in diameter)Apparent size (V): 18′.6 × 7′.2
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 66 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats, processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: January 26, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 6 July 2022
Globular Cluster Messier 53 (M53 or NGC 5024)
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Class: VConstellation: Coma BerenicesRight ascension: 13h 12m 55.25sDeclination: +18° 10′ 05.4″Distance: 58,000 lyApparent magnitude (V): 7.6Apparent dimensions (V): 13’
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 81 x 60 seconds at 0C plus darks and flats, processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: April 29, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 1 July 2022
Open Cluster Messier 67 (M67 or NGC 2682)
Distance to Earth: 2,800 light yearsRight ascension: 08h 51.3mDeclination: +11° 49′Apparent Magnitude: 6.1Common Name: King Cobra clusterFeatures: Three confirmed extrasolar planetsApparent dimensions: 30′
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 108 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats, processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: January 3, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 28 June 2022
Globular Cluster Messier 92 (M92 or NGC 6341)
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Class: IVConstellation: HerculesRight ascension: 17h 17m 07.39sDeclination: +43° 08′ 09.4″[2]Distance: 27,000 lyApparent magnitude (V): 6.4Apparent dimensions (V): 14' arc minutes
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 81 x 60 seconds at 0C plus darks and flats, processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: April 29, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 24 June 2022
Globular Cluster Messier 3
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Class: VIConstellation: Canes VenaticiRight ascension: 13h 42m 11.62sDeclination: +28° 22′ 38.2″Distance: 33.9 klyApparent magnitude (V): 6.39Apparent dimensions (V): 18′.0
Tech Specs: Meade 12” LX-90, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, Antares Focal Reducer, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 72 x 60 seconds at 0C plus darks and flats, processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: May 30, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 20 June 2022
The Dumbbell Nebula - Messier 27
- Observation data: J2000 epoch
- Right ascension: 19h 59m 36.340s
- Declination: +22° 43′ 16.09″
- Apparent magnitude (V): 7.4
- Apparent dimensions (V): 8.0′ × 5.6′
- Constellation: Vulpecula
Tech Specs: Meade 12” LX-90, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, Antares Focal Reducer, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 52 x 60 seconds at 0C plus darks and flats, processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: May 29, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 17 June 2022
Clavius Crater on Earth’s Moon
Tech Specs: Meade 12” LX-90 Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ASI290MC, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, best 15% of 10000 frames. Processed using SharpCap, Autostakkert, Registax and Luminar Neo. Image Date: June 9, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 13 June 2022
IC2177 and the Seagull Nebula Region
Tech Specs: Williams Optics REDCAT51, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at 0C, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount, Optolong L-eNhance filter (2”), 24 x 300 second exposures, guided using a ZWO 30mm f/4 mini guide scope and ZWO 120 Mini, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro, ProAstroGear Black-CAT and ZWO EAF, stacked in DSS and processed using PixInsight and Adobe Lightroom. Image date: January 31, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
FLICK EXPLORER IMAGE OF THE DAY - June 14, 2022
RELEASE DATE: 10 June 2022
The Moon - June 9, 2022
Tech Specs: Meade 12” LX-90 Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, best 15% of 500 frames, two image composite. Processed using SharpCap, Autostakkert, Registax and Luminar Neo. Image Date: June 9, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 9 June 2022
The LEO Triplet - M65, M66 and NGC 3628
Tech Specs: Sky Watcher Esprit 120ED, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount, ZWO ASI2600MC-P camera, 93 x 60 seconds at -10C with darks from the library and flats taken the next morning, guided using a ZWO 30mm f/4 mini guide scope and ZWO 120 Mini, focus using a ZWO EAF. Captured using ZWO AAP and processed using PixInsight. Image date: March 3, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 5 June 2022
Spiral Galaxy Messier 94 (M94)
From NASA - New stars are forming at a high rate within the bright ring. This region is known as a starburst ring. The cause of this peculiarly shaped star-forming region is likely a pressure wave traveling outward from the galactic center, compressing the gas and dust in the outer regions. The compression of material means the gas starts to collapse into denser clouds. Inside these dense clouds, gravity pulls the gas and dust together until the temperature and pressure are high enough for stars to be born.
Observation data (Epoch J2000)Constellation: Canes VenaticiRight ascension: 12h 50m 53.1sDeclination: +41° 07′ 14″Apparent dimension (V): 11.2’ × 9.1’Apparent magnitude (V): 8.99
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 66 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats, processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: January 26, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 2 June 2022
The California Nebula - NGC1499 Through Clouds
- Observation data: J2000.0 epoch
- Right ascension: 04h 03m 18.00s
- Declination: +36° 25′ 18.0″
- Distance: 1,000 ly
- Apparent magnitude (V): 6.0
- Apparent dimensions (V): 2.5° long
- Constellation: Perseus
Tech Specs: Williams Optics REDCAT51, ZWO AS2600mc-Pro running at 0C, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount, Optolong L-eNhance filter (2”), 24 x 300 second exposures, guided using a ZWO 30mm f/4 mini guide scope and ZWO 120 Mini, controlled with a ZWO ASIAir Pro, ProAstroGear Black-CAT and ZWO EAF, stacked in DSS and processed using PixInsight and Adobe Lightroom. Image date: January 4, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 31 May 2022
Tau Herculid Meteor Shower
Tech specs: Canon 6D, ZWO AAP, Lensbaby Fisheye lens, ISO 1000, 60 second exposures. Processed in Adobe Lightroom. Image Date: May 31, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 30 May 2022
Globular Cluster Messier 10 (M10)
Observation data (J2000 epoch)Class: VIIConstellation: OphiuchusRight ascension: 16h 57m 8.92sDeclination: −04° 05′ 58.07″Distance: 14.3 klyApparent magnitude (V): 6.6Apparent dimensions (V): 20′.0
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 71 x 60 seconds at 0C plus darks and flats, processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: April 29, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 26 May 2022
M63 - The Sunflower Galaxy
Distance to Earth: 27 million light yearsRadius: 49,000 light yearsRight ascension: 13h 15m 49.3sDeclination: +42°01’45”Apparent Magnitude: 9.3Apparent dimensions: 12′.6 x 7′.2Stars: 400 billionCommon Name: Sunflower Galaxy
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 108 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats, processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: January 3, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 23 May 2022
Messier 36 - Open Cluster in Auriga
Distance: 4,340 light year.Radius: 7 light yearRight ascension: 05h 36m 18.0sDeclination: +34° 08′ 24″Apparent Magnitude: 6.3
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 54 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats, processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: January 3, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 19 May 2022
NGC 772 (Arp 78) The Nautilus Galaxy
Distance: 130 million light year.Right ascension: 01h 59m 20sDeclination: +19° 00’ 27”Apparent Magnitude: 10.3Apparent Size: 4.57 x 2.52 (arc minutes)
I’ve imaged this galaxy three times in the last seven years, each time bringing out new details from changes in camera sensor technology, software processing and experience.
I’m not sure who first coined the name “Nautilus Galaxy”, but I did find a reference from 2008 by Ruben Kier who states, “I find the shape of NGC 772 resembles the nautilus shell, as illustrated to the right, so I have called it the Nautilus Galaxy.” (REF: http://www.stardoctor.org/772.html) If you Google “Nautilus Shell” you’ll see what he is talking about.
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 178 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats, processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: November 9, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
FLICK EXPLORER IMAGE OF THE DAY - May 20, 2022
RELEASE DATE: 16 May 2022
Lunar Eclipse - May 15, 2022
RELEASE DATE: 15 May 2022
The Helix Galaxy - NGC 2685
Distance: 40-42 million light year.Diameter: 50,000 light years (half of the Milky Way)Right ascension: 08h 55m 34.75sDeclination: +58° 44′ 03.87″Apparent Magnitude: 11.1Apparent Diameter: 5.2 (arc minutes)
There are many examples of Seyfert Galaxies and you can peruse them at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seyfert_galaxy
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 160 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats, processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: November 8, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 9 May 2022
The Moon - May 8, 2022
Tech Specs: Meade 12" LX-90 telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, Antares Focal Reducer, best 15% of 1000 frames at full resolution, Sharpcap Pro, Autostakkert, Luminar Neo. Image Date: May 8, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 6 May 2022
NGC 457 - The Owl Cluster
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 54 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks, processed using DSS. Image Date: November 8, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 3 May 2022
Moon - Mercury - Pleiades Conjunction
Tech specs: Canon 6D, Pluto trigger, Canon EF70-200mm f/2.8L USM lens, tripod mounted, ISO 1250, 2.5 seconds, f/8, 200mm. Processed in Adobe Lightroom and ProDigital Software StarSpikes Pro v4. Image Date: May 2, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 2 May 2022
Galaxy NGC 1961 (Arp 184)
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 108 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats, processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: November 8, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 28 April 2022
Galaxy Messier 109 in Ursa Major
Annotated image link provided below.
- Distance to Earth: 83 million light years
- Apparent Magnitude: 10.6
- Right ascension: 11h 57m 36.0s
- Declination: +53° 22′ 28″
- Apparent dimensions: 7.6 × 4.7 arc minutes
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 135 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats, processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: January 3, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
Annotated IMAGE
RELEASE DATE: 25 April 2022
Supernova 2022hrs in NGC4647
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 48 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats, BIN2,, processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: April 25, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 23 April 2022
Galaxy IC356 (Arp213) in Camelopardalis
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 108 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks, processed using DSS. Image Date: November 8, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 22 April 2022
Lyrid Meteor Shower - Rogue Meteor
Tech Specs: Canon 6D with Lensbaby Fisheye Lens, ZWO AAPlus, dew strap, unguided, operated via ethernet to Bluestacks. 120 second exposure at ISO 1000. Processed in Luminar NEO and Corel PaintshopPro. Image Date: April 22, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 20 April 2022
Today’s Sun - April 20, 2022
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Orion Glass Solar Filter, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, best 15% of 1000 frames, processed using Autostakkert and Registax. Image Date: April 20, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 18 April 2022
Open Cluster NGC 2158 in Gemini
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 54 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats, stacked in DSS. Image Date: November 7, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 15 April 2022
Spiral Galaxy Messier 74 (M74)
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 108 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats, stacked in DSS. Image Date: November 7, 2021 and January 31, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
FLICK EXPLORER IMAGE OF THE DAY - April 16, 2022
RELEASE DATE: 12 April 2022
Flaming Star (IC405) and Tadpole Nebula (IC410)
If you are viewing this on Facebook, I've also included an annotated image.
Tech Specs: Williams Optics Redcat, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount, ZWO ASI2600MC-P camera, Optolong L-eNhance 2" filter, 22 x 300 seconds at -10C with darks from the library and flats taken the next morning, guided using a ZWO 30mm f/4 mini guide scope and ZWO 120 Mini. Captured using ZWO AAP and processed using PixInsight. Autofocus using the ProAstroGear Black-CAT and ZWO EAF. Image date: January 26, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 9 April 2022
Open Cluster M35 in Gemini
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 54 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats, stacked in DSS. Image Date: November 7, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 6 April 2022
Supernova SN2022ewj in Galaxy NGC 3367
INFO: A Type II supernova (plural: supernovae or supernovas) results from the rapid collapse and violent explosion of a massive star. A star must have at least 8 times, but no more than 40 to 50 times, the mass of the Sun (M☉) to undergo this type of explosion. Type II supernovae are distinguished from other types of supernovae by the presence of hydrogen in their spectra. (Wikipedia).
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 56 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats, processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: April 5, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 5 April 2022
Occultation of 14 Tauri
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 30 second unguided exposures at -10C, processed using PixInsight and Corel Paintshop Pro. Image Date: April 5, 2022 at 00:32 (UT). Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 4 April 2022
Globular Cluster NGC 2419 in Lynx
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 54 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats, stacked in DSS. Image Date: November 6, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 3 April 2022
The Sun - April 2, 2022
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Orion Glass Solar Filter, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, best 10% of 1000 frames, processed using Autostakkert and Registax. Image Date: April 4, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 1 April 2022
The Eskimo Nebula - NGC 2392
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 54 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats, stacked in DSS. Image Date: November 6, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 28 March 2022
Quadruple Conjunction - March 28, 2022
Tech Specs: Canon 6D tripod mounted, Pluto trigger, Canon EF70-200mm USM lens, Canon 2xIII, ISO 400, 2.5 seconds, f/5.6, 140mm. Image Date: March 28, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 26 March 2022
Seyfert Galaxy NGC 1275
Hubble Image at https://hubblesite.org/contents/media/images/2008/28/2375-Image.html
I was happy to detect some of the galaxy strands that Hubble showed in it’s image taken in 2008.
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 162 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats, stacked in DSS. Image Date: November 6, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 24 March 2022
Central Region of the Orion Nebula
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 108 minutes total, mix of 5, 10, 30 and 60 second exposures at -10C plus darks, processed using DSS. Image Date: November 8, 2021 and January 31, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 21 March 2022
Montes Apenninus - March 11, 2022
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ASI290MC, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, best 15% of 10k frames at full resolution, processed using SharpCap Pro and Registax. Image Date: March 11, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 18 March 2022
Planetary Nebula NGC 40
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF. 59 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats. Image Date: November 6, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 15 March 2022
The Pacman Nebula - NGC 281/Sh2-184
Tech Specs: Williams Optics Redcat, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount, ZWO ASI2600MC-P camera, Optolong L-eNhance 2" filter, 48 x 300 seconds at -10C with darks from the library and flats taken the next morning, guided using a ZWO 30mm f/4 mini guide scope and ZWO 120 Mini. Captured using ZWO AAP and processed using PixInsight. Autofocus using the ProAstroGear Black-CAT and ZWO EAF. Image date: November 6, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 12 March 2022
Rupes Recta on the Moon
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ASI290MC, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, best 20% of 30k frames at full resolution, processed using SharpCap Pro and Registax. Image Date: March 11, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 11 March 2022
Waxing Gibbous Moon - March 10, 2022
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, best 20% of 500 frames at full resolution, processed using SharpCap Pro and Registax. Image Date: March 10, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 10 March 2022
Planetary Nebula NGC 2371/72
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF. 54 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats. Image Date: November 5, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 7 March 2022
Comet 110P/Hartley
110P/Hartley live position and data on March 4, 2022.Right Ascension: 07h 51m 21.8s Declination: 13° 27' 44.0" (J2000)Magnitude: 16.47 (Estimated: JPL) Constellation: GeminiSun Distance: 387,987,959 km [20.9 km/s] Earth Distance: 270,433,333 km [19.0 km/s]Perihelion: 21 Oct 2021 05:51 UTC [+133d 19h 8m 37s]
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 54 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats, processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: March 4, 2022 @ 01:00 (UT). Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 5 March 2022
Supernova 2022fx in NGC 4348
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 54 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats, processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: March 4, 2022 @ 01:00 (UT). Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 3 March 2022
The Horsehead Nebula in Orion
Tech Specs: Williams Optics Redcat, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount, ZWO ASI2600MC-P camera, Optolong L-eNhance 2" filter, 48 x 300 seconds (4 hours) at -20C with darks from the library and flats taken the next morning, guided using a ZWO 30mm f/4 mini guide scope and ZWO 120 Mini. Captured using ZWO AAP and processed using PixInsight. Autofocus was accomplished using the ProAstroGear Black-CAT and ZWO EAF. Image date: January 31, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
FLICK EXPLORER IMAGE OF THE DAY - March 3, 2022
RELEASE DATE: 1 March 2022
Comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko
- Right Ascension: 08h 23m 01.2s Declination: 26° 54' 37.6" (J2000)
- Magnitude: 11.1 (Observed: COBS) Constellation: Cancer
- Sun Distance: 273,951,572 km [26.7 km/s] Earth Distance: 140,817,219 km [23.0 km/s]
- Perihelion: 23 Jan 2022 07:06 UTC [+34d 19h 27m 56s]
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 90 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats, processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: February 21, 2022 @ 02:30 (UT). Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 27 February 2022
Orion and Running Man Nebula M42 Complex
Tech Specs: Williams Optics Redcat, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount, ZWO ASI2600MC-P camera, Optolong L-eNhance 2" filter, 36 x 300 seconds at -20C with darks from the library and flats taken the next morning, guided using a ZWO 30mm f/4 mini guide scope and ZWO 120 Mini. Captured using ZWO AAP and processed using PixInsight. Autofocus using the ProAstroGear Black-CAT and ZWO EAF. Image date: January 26, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 25 February 2022
Comet 116P/Wild 4
Right Ascension: 09h 42m 53.8s Declination: 18° 58' 40.6" (J2000)Magnitude: 14.90 (Estimated: JPL) Constellation: LeoSun Distance: 361,523,431 km [21.9 km/s] Earth Distance: 215,377,993 km [8.9 km/s]Perihelion: 10 Jul 2022 20:24 UTC [-139d 17h 53m 44s]
HISTORY: Paul Wild (Astronomical Institute, Berne University, Switzerland) on 1990 January 21.98 at a position of RA=9h 34m 31.69s, DEC=+20° 39' 39.5" (1950.0). He described the comet as strongly condensed, with a total magnitude of 13.5-14.0. There was a fan-shaped tail extending about one arc minute toward the northwest.
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 54 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats, processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: February 21, 2022 @ 02:30 (UT). Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 23 February 2022
Comet C/2019 L3 (ATLAS)
Right Ascension: 06h 35m 20.8s Declination: 22° 49' 37.5" (J2000)Magnitude: 9.2 (Observed: COBS) Constellation: GeminiSun Distance: 534,885,571 km [22.3 km/s] Earth Distance: 434,198,442 km [28.1 km/s]Perihelion: 9 Jan 2022 17:57 UTC [+42d 6h 25m 32s]
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 54 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats, processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: February 21, 2022 @ 02:30 (UT). Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 22 February 2022
Comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko
Right Ascension: 08h 22m 36.9s Declination: 27° 28' 17.6" (J2000)Magnitude: 10.5 (Observed: COBS) Constellation: CancerSun Distance: 266,941,984 km [27.2 km/s] Earth Distance: 129,406,197 km [21.3 km/s]Perihelion: 23 Jan 2022 07:06 UTC [+28d 19h 21m 22s]
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 54 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats, processed using PixInsight and DSS. Image Date: February 21, 2022 @ 02:30 (UT). Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 21 February 2022
Messier 1 - The Crab Nebula in Taurus
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 267 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks, processed using DSS. Image Date: November 4, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 18 February 2022
Starburst Galaxy NGC1569
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF. 108 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats. Image Date: November 5, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 15 February 2022
The Jellyfish Nebula IC443 in Gemini
Tech Specs: Williams Optics Redcat, Sky-Watcher EQ6R-Pro mount, ZWO ASI2600MC-P camera, Optolong L-eNhance 2" filter, 60 x 300 seconds at -10C with darks from the library and flats taken the next morning, guided using a ZWO 30mm f/4 mini guide scope and ZWO 120 Mini. Captured using ZWO AAP and processed using PixInsight. Autofocus using the ProAstroGear Black-CAT and ZWO EAF. Image date: November 5, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
ANNOTATE VERSION
RELEASE DATE: 12 February 2022
Galaxy NGC2403 in Camelopardalis
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 54 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats, stacked in DSS. Image Date: November 6, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 10 February 2022
Waxing Gibbous Moon - February 9, 2022
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, best 20% of 500 frames at full resolution, processed using SharpCap Pro and Registax. Image Date: February 9, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 9 February 2022
Messier 81 - Bode's Galaxy in Ursa Major
Messier 81 is the largest galaxy in the M81 Group, a group of 34 galaxies located in the constellation Ursa Major. At approximately 11.8 million light years from the Earth, it makes this group and the Local Group, containing the Milky Way, relative neighbors in the Virgo Supercluster. (Wikipedia)
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF. 108x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats. Image Date: November 6, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
FLICK EXPLORER IMAGE OF THE DAY - February 10, 2022
RELEASE DATE: 6 February 2022
The Surfboard Galaxy M108
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF. 89 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats. Image Date: November 5, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 3 February 2022
Edge-On Spiral Galaxy NGC 891 in Andromeda
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF. 90 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats. Image Date: November 5, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 29 January 2022
Planetary Nebula NGC 1501 in Camelopardalis
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF. 54 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats. Image Date: November 4, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 26 January 2022
Observation of Comet C/2019 L3 (Atlas)
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF, 60 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks, processed using DSS. Image Date: January 25, 2022. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).
RELEASE DATE: 23 January 2022
NGC 1514 - The Crystal Ball Nebula of Taurus
Tech Specs: Orion 8" f/8 Ritchey-Chretien Astrograph Telescope, Celestron CGEM-DX pier mounted, ZWO ASI290MC and ASI071MC-Pro, ZWO AAPlus, ZWO EAF. 54 x 60 seconds at -10C plus darks and flats. Image Date: November 4, 2021. Location: The Dark Side Observatory, Weatherly, PA, USA (Bortle Class 4).