The Praying Mantis

Image Description and Details : Just above the witch in the sky hovers a praying mantis…..

It fascinates the mind that our ancestors chose to name many objects in the sky based on animals and some of the names which come to mind are the Scorpion, the Bear and even a Dragon. Continuing in the same vein and keeping to traditions, in my mind’s eye I see NGC 1788 as a Praying Mantis. That it lies in close proximity to IC 2118, the Witch Head nebula gives it an even more sinister character. The star Beta Eridani / Cursa shines brightly creating a strong halo while the ionised hydrogen gases in the region contrast it in bright red emissions. The blues from the reflection nebulae and the dust in the region all combine together to form a rich smörgåsbord of color….

Telescope: Takahashi E160ed
Camera: Zwo 6200mm pro
Mount: Software Bisque Paramount Mx+
Observatory : Deep Sky Chile

L = 101 x 300s = 8h25m
R= 101 x 300s = 8h25m
G= 101 x 300s = 8h25m
B= 101 x 300s = 8h25m
Ha = 101 x 600s = 16h50m

Total integration = 50h30m

Acquisition Software = Voyager Advanced
Processing Software = PixInsight

Copyright: vikas chander