NGC2024 Flame Nebula

DETAILS: Optical setup: LX200 10"/Hutech LPS filter/6.3 focal reducer/AO-7 (adaptive optics)/CFW-8 filter wheel/ST-10XME camera. Imaged with a hydrogen alpha filter, 10nm (Schuler). Ten minute integrations for a total of 4 hours. Combined and debloomed in MaxIm DL. Noise removal and sharpened with MaxIm DL and NEAT Image. Levels and curves in PS.

COMMENTARY: The Flame Nebula, located in the Constellation Orion is an emission nebula energized by Zeta Orionis and other nearby hot stars near the Horsehead Nebula. Alnitak shows a large diffraction pattern and lights up the surrounding gases. Also makes a beautiful color imaging target.