GET 1042 ASTROPHOTOGRAPHY OBSERVING FORM

Activity: Object: Observer: Group:

Deep Sky Astrophotography M20 Trifid Nebula, M8 Lagoon Nebula Lee Zhao Yi Charles Group G1.
Image description and comments:

This photo shows M8 Lagoon Nebula captured together with M20 Trifid Nebula. At
the time of observation under the Class 5 skies, the nebulosity of the object was
faint and had a pinkish-blue hue to it. The actual shape when observed, was
distinctly different from the seemingly oval shape of reference images from
Stellarium or Hubble. The brightness of the object was dim and hence, fewer details
of the interstellar clouds were noticeable given the short exposures due to the strong
winds. The apparent magnitude of 6 made it a difficult object to observe. The core
of the nebula was the most prominent, with the nebula’s interstellar clouds on its
edges, close to being unseen. After stringent examination, the fuzzy, faded pink
colors of the interstellar clouds could be observed against the darkness of the
universe. The star density per unit area of image was not very high but one could
observe many neighboring stars near M8 Lagoon Nebula.

Across a region densely filled with stars from the Lagoon Nebula, was the M20
Trifid Nebula. The Trifid Nebula could be seen due to its close proximity to the
Lagoon Nebula. The Trifid Nebula had a faded pink with a tinge of dark turquoise
color to it. Nevertheless, it stood out against the darkness of the universe because of
its distinct circular shapes, seemingly like that two overlapping circles. Regardless,
the dark nebulae within the Trifid Nebula was well-defined. Within the Trifid
Nebula lied two very bright stars, worthy of attention.

As observed, the Lagoon Nebula and the Trifid Nebula were significant objects of
interest which lied in a region of high star density. This photo particularly highlights
the band of high star density which lied between both nebulae.

Date and Time of Observation: Location: Sky Conditions:

Tanjung Leman, Felda Residences Clear with passing clouds, strong wind and light haze.
Equipment: Camera Settings:
The William Optics Z71, iOptron SmartEQ Pro(unguided), Canon 70D Subexposure 1 – ISO2500, Exposure 45s,
Subexposure 2 – ISO 400, Exposure 270s
Subexposure 3 – ISO640, Exposure 180s
Subexposure 4 – ISO2500, Exposure 45s. => Total Exposure Time = 9 minutes