Orion's Sword (M42)

This photo's quality is in stark contrast to the print generated ten years earlier.  Compositing has removed the grain, autoguiding has improved the star size and roundness, and positive scanning has allowed for contrast and color enhancements.  A final 15 frame composite was also generated that resolves the trapezium to the four stars in a print of sufficient size.

9 frame composite unhypered Kodak Ecktachrome E200

123 minutes total exposure

Borg 125ED f6.4

Oct/Nov/Dec 2003, © Boulder Knolls Observatory