Ngc3242 - Ghost of Jupiter

[Skywatcher]

Hello
I have this simi failed attempt to image the Ghost 5 Mar 2008. When I set up the scope the sky was clear but by the time I had gathered only 5 x 11.5s exposures it was cloudy. I really felt cheated but the few exposures turned out better than expected. I decided to post them after looking at numerous images on the web.

The image was taken using a Celestron C8 F10 and the Meade Dsi color ccd. I can't wait til the weather clears again so I can finish this project. The Ghost transits about 10-11pm cst at 39°. It is quite bright and makes a nice target.

www.fototime.com and search for "ghost" if you want to see a 5 frame stack.

James C.
Arkansas

[Ron]

James,

Doesn't look semi failed to me, looks every bit as good as the Eskimo and the others you have on FhotoTime

I know what you mean about the clouds, we are socked in down here so that means no Messier hunting for me

Hope better weather is coming since Spring and daylight savings time is just around the corner

Ron

[Skywatcher]

Ron
The image I posted of the Eskimo was 56 exposures but the Ghost was only 5 exposures before the clouds moved in. I was surprised at the Ghost composite and excited too because I am hopeful that 30-40 exposures will bring out more details of a "fair" image.

I am getting snow today, Friday, and it looks like it will be about a week before clear skies return and I am very anxious to get a better image of the Ghost.

Thanks for your commets
James C.
Arkansas

[Ron]

James,

I don't know much about the DSI camera but that's amazing you picked up that much information with only 5 frames.

I anxious to see what I can do if and when it clears up down  here

Ron