I recently conducted the initial test of the Antlia 4.5nm Hydrogen alpha filter, paired with the ASI 2600 MM Pro camera and the Takahashi FS-102 telescope. We are very pleased with the preliminary results. For this test, calibration was performed using dark frames only; proper flatfield acquisition is the next step to refine the imaging process. Hopefully I can add more data over the next few clear nights and incorporate Oxygen III and Sulphur II.
The Elephant Trunk Nebula in Hydrogen Alpha Light
The Elephant Trunk Nebula, officially known as IC 1396A, is a captivating cosmic structure located within the much larger IC 1396 emission nebula in the constellation Cepheus. This particular image showcases the nebula in Hydrogen Alpha (Ha) light, a specific wavelength of light emitted by ionised hydrogen atoms. This allows astronomers to highlight regions of active star formation and the intricate, delicate tendrils of gas and dust that are being sculpted by the powerful winds and radiation from nearby massive stars. The distinctive 'trunk' shape, from which the nebula derives its popular name, is a dense pillar of gas and dust that is resisting erosion, shielding cooler, denser material within it where new stars are beginning to form.
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