Whirlpool Galaxy (M51)

I have been attempting to use my Meade LPI as an autoguider. I had limited success last night (wind was gusting between 10 and 15 MPH). I was able to capture some 1 min exposures between the gusts. I took 30 but only about 8 came out. So here's the results.

The Whirlpool Galaxy (also known as Messier 51a, M51a, or NGC 5194) is an interacting^[5] grand-design^[6] spiral galaxy located at a distance of approximately 23 million light-years in the constellation Canes Venatici. It is one of the most famous galaxies in the sky.^[7] The galaxy and its companion (NGC 5195) are easily observed by amateur astronomers, and the two galaxies may even be seen with binoculars.^[8] The Whirlpool Galaxy is also a popular target for professional astronomers, who study it to further understanding of galaxy structure (particularly structure associated with the spiral arms) and galaxy interactions.

Mars 2nd attempt

I'm much happier with the 2nd attempt.

Latest M81 (Bodes Galaxy)

Here's an image from last night. Finally was able to capture 60 second images (30 stacked). SW254N with EQ5 p (unguided) DSI IIc.

Mars

Here's my 1st attempt at Mars. I neglected to find a star to focus on so it is a bit out of focus. However if you look closely you can see the polar ice cap (white area in the lower right). This was the first bit of "clear" weather we have had in a while so I took the opportunity. However the clouds were rolling in so I was pressed for time. Hopefully I will get another chance in the near future. Also we were at almost a full moon that was very close to Mars. Oh well we will try again!

Bubble Nebula NGC7635

Here's my 1st attempt at the Bubble Nebula. 20 each 45 sec images stacked.

(from Wikipedia)

NGC 7635, also called the Bubble Nebula and Sharpless 162, is a H II region[2] emission nebula in the constellation Cassiopeia. It lies close to the direction of the open cluster Messier 52. The "bubble" is created by the stellar wind from a massive hot, 8.7[2] magnitude young central star, the 15 ± 5 M☉[4] SAO 20575 (BD+60 2522).[7] The nebula is near a giant molecular cloud which contains the expansion of the bubble nebula while itself being excited by the hot central star, causing it to glow.[7] It was discovered in 1787 by Friedrich Wilhelm Herschel.[6] The star SAO 20575 or BD+602522 is thought to have a mass of 10-40 Solar masses.

M52 Open Cluster

Here's a photo of an Open Cluster of stars (M52).

New Andromeda

I was able to capture about 20- 30 sec images of Andromedia last night. Here's the results. You can begin to see some dust trails on the edges.