The Whirlpool Galaxy
This is a capture of 1h 55m of 5 minute exposures on the Whirlpool Galaxy, or Messier 51. This image was captured through a Meade 14" SCT @ f10 guided on a Paramount ME using a QSI 583c. Rendering accurate colour on this target was a challenge with the QSI but after a few hours of processing I managed this result. Not only is there great detail in the dust lanes, but some of the Ha zones also appear pink suggesting that with a longer exposure they may have distinguished themselves from the main structure of the arms.