Solar Practice 1

I decided to do some solar imaging again.  I briefly did some years ago but did not stick with it.  This is my first solar image in over three years.  I consider it a success since it is the sun and it is better than I ever did before.

Date: 6-13-20
Telescope: Coronado PST
Camera: ZWO ASI174 MM (uncooled)
Mount: Orion Sirius
Barlow: Orion Shorty 2x
Capture Software: Sharpcap
Frames: 500, best 50%
Processing: Autostakkert 2.6.8, PixInsight, Photoshop

I am glad I processed this as I almost did not because I thought it was way out of focus.  The processing method was a combination of stuff I learned from Marty Wise (Wise Imaging) and Chuck Ayoub (Chuck's Astrophotography), thanks to both.  I only did very simple things while processing and certainly need more practice.  There was even a solar flare but I did not see it while I was capturing it.  I brought it into the surface image even though it is not great.

So I got this image but sent back the ZWO174 Kit (it came with a filter wheel and filters) as I was not totally happy with it for a couple of reasons:  1) Must use a Barlow for focus, 2) Larger Pixel size - less resolution.  I am exchanging it for an ASI178 which has a smaller pixel size - more resolution (but possibly more noise).  Another advantage is I won't need a barlow for focusing so it is a better fit for the PST and it is cheaper.  The next plan is turning my Orion ED80 that is collecting dust into a solar scope, I can use the savings from returning camera kit to get the bartender from Deep Space Nine!