LBN 534 and the Checkmates (Dust, reflections, galaxies, stars, and a PN) in LHaRGB (Andromeda)
Askar 151phq (FIRST LIGHT!); AP Mach2 GTO
ASI6200MM, - Baader RGB & 6.5nm NB CMOS opt. filters
Ha: ( 74 x 600s, Bin 1, Gain 200)
R,G,B: (59,64,65 x 100s Bin 1, Gain 200)
L: (83 x 240s, Gain 100)
Total integration time = 23.1 hrs
LBN 534 is the catalogue name of a checkmark shaped molecular dust cloud in Andromeda that contains a lot of interesting features. Firstly, one can see that it actually lies in a larger environment of wispy dust. A few bright stars, embedded in the check are producing blue reflections off it, provided a nice contrast to the otherwise reddish brown / grey dust colour reflecting the glow of the milky way.
There are at least a dozen background galaxies in this image too, some of which can be readily picked out from the abundant stars. Finally, another quick “egg hunt” reveals the Planetary Nebula “PD110-12.1” towards the lower right corner of the image. In most RGB images this PN appears blue-green. After spending a lot of time collecting Ha signal, I decided to use it in this image, but as a consequence it turned the PN a shade of purple. Since this was the only area where there was clear Ha signal, I had to use it rather than just throwing the Ha subframes away. (I am sure that the green/blue O signal from this PN is likely very strong too).
This image is the first shot using my new Askar 151phq telescope. I wanted a 6” that could better cover a full frame sensor and provide an long-intermediate focal length. I am very happy with how the scope performs (and was extremely happy with the price I paid), and based on its build quality and on this albeit single image I would highly recommend it.