Here is a target that has been evading me over the last year… well partially as a result of the influx of clouds during the last season, and partially due to my distraction with other popular winter targets. This is my first attempt for the year on the Seagull Nebula (IC 2177), a nebulous emission region which lies along the border between the constellations of Monoceros and Canis Major. The Seagull is located some 3,650 light years from Earth. It is quite obvious how this target got its name. The entire shape resembles a gracefully gliding bird, but the head stands out with somewhat of a conniving gein. I will be returning to this region shortly with more emphasis on the head. So stay tuned and remember to look up and experience an amazing Universe!
Gear: AA Hypercam 26C, SW Evostar 72ED, HEM27 mount, Optolong L-Ultimate; SVbony 120mm guidescope + ZWO 120mc
Exif: 9 x 5-min subs; Gain 200, Offset 3, TEC @ 10 degrees; 20 darks, 20 flats, 20 dark flats
SharpCap, PHD2; AstroPixelProcessor, PixInsight; Photoshop
Very interesting object and I always like your super creative titles! I will be looking forward to a little more close up detail on parts of the object. I hope you can get a little bit closer look at the dark squiggly dark nebula which seems to be at the bird’s head. Hope the weather cooperates. Clear skies and keep up the good work!
Hi Eric. That’s exactly the close up I want to get… that dark nebula to see what that’s all about. Note that image was only 45 mins of integration. So with with at least 3 or 4 hours the details in that dark nebula should start to come out. Enjoy the rest of the day!