Guestbook

10/9/2013

Please feel free to leave any comments or thoughts you have on my work.

248 Comments

Roger

10/9/2013 02:13:49 pm

Hey Sara, looking good, love the rooftop obsy. :-)

Sara

11/9/2013 03:10:22 am

Thanks Roger. The design was fraught with potential problems, but so far ........ it's been OK!

Mark McNeil

10/9/2013 02:30:46 pm

Hi Sara,

I'm so glad you've put this website together. Seeing your work gives me hope that one day I might get around to building my own observatory and having a go.

Thank you for sharing the pics!

Mark

Sara

11/9/2013 03:11:33 am

I hope that you do get up and running one day Mark. You showed such enthusiasm.

Albert link

23/6/2017 06:19:30 am

Agree, what a nicely thought out website! Love the simplicity and the amazing photos!

Ian Molyneaux

11/9/2013 01:58:52 am

Hi Sara,

Looks very impressive. Something I always wanted to do but (so far) have not had the time. Hope you and Steve are well.

Kr
Ian

Sara

11/9/2013 03:13:07 am

Thanks Ian. This is a real time monster of that there is no doubt! In real terms each image takes many hours - Just as well I have nothing better to do! We are both well, thank you!

Peter Shah link

11/9/2013 04:33:41 am

great looking site with some stunning new images

Sara

11/9/2013 05:28:03 am

Thank you Peter - I certainly hope to be adding to this on a regular basis!

Helen

11/9/2013 07:56:36 am

Wow Sara! What a truly amazing hobby! Your observatory is impressive and you are taking some awesomely beautiful photographs. Love it. Love you! Xxx

Sara

11/9/2013 08:41:28 am

Thanks for looking Helen, I'm glad that you like the images. Keep an eye on the site for new images as and when the weather allows!!

colin link

11/9/2013 04:27:09 pm

hi great shots i can only hope to aspire to these heights wow

Sara

12/9/2013 05:01:02 am

Thanks Colin. Much appreciate your comment. I look forward to seeing some of your work.

Jake

16/9/2013 11:10:02 am

website looks good Sara. I'm a weebly fan as well, makes the whole process very easy

Sara

19/9/2013 01:44:42 am

Thanks Jake, I'm glad that you like the site. There's more being added all the time - Images as the weather permits and also I keep thinking of new things I want to add!

Jake link

19/9/2013 07:05:01 am

if you'd like i can add a link to your site on the home page of my site ?

Sara

21/9/2013 06:35:28 am

Cheers Jake, that would be good. Your website looks very good - A different template, but very effective.

Martin

21/9/2013 03:57:54 pm

I came armed with my sunglasses and wasn't dissapointed

Sara

22/9/2013 02:08:27 am

I aim to please Martin - I just hope that the images didn't burn into your retina too much!!!

Dave Watson link

22/9/2013 08:36:07 am

Hi Sara, Love your narrow band work and you are certainly rewarded by putting in the imaging hours.

Dave

Sara

26/9/2013 07:25:34 am

Thanks Dave - I like taking the time with an image and it's good to see how it progresses!

Craig Thompson

25/9/2013 12:47:05 pm

Hi Sara, Absolutely stunning work your doing, I know where to come the next time i need inspiration. Superb.

Sara

26/9/2013 07:26:19 am

Thanks Craig - I hope that you come back and check the site out. Weather permitting all new images will be on here!

Will te Winkel link

21/10/2013 12:50:39 pm

Hi Sara,

I took a look at your website! Looks very good! You' ve a very nice setup! I am looking also forward to your posts on Astronomy Inside.

Will

Sara

23/10/2013 02:56:15 pm

Thanks Will. I'm glad that you like the site and hop you will come back and check out my work from time to time!

David (galileo) link

3/11/2013 02:41:13 am

Lovely website Sara, impressed by everything from the obsy to the images, keep supplying us with those amazing images

Sara

3/11/2013 11:51:50 am

Thanks David for your comments - I'm glad that you like the site and the content. As long as the weather cooperates I'll keep imaging!!

Bert

7/11/2013 10:53:34 am

Nice website. I like the observatory very much. You have a awesome view. You must have very nice dark skys over there. Wish you lots more fun.

Bert

Sara

8/11/2013 01:26:02 am

Glad that you enjoyed the website Bert. The views are good, but I don't think that the skies are that dark really - Little better than rural on the Bortle scale.

Andy (andyboy1970) link

14/11/2013 04:57:48 pm

Great site Sara. Fantastic images.

Sara

16/11/2013 03:00:15 am

Many thanks Andy - Glad that you like the site.

Dave Williams

21/11/2013 05:02:34 pm

I'm watching this site get better and better. Following the progress of the Helix very carefully. Nice work.

Dave.

Sara

22/11/2013 05:56:13 am

Thanks Dave - The Helix is coming on slowly, only a maximum of 3, maybe 4 subs a night due to it's unfavourable position - I hope it's worth it!!

cosmologychris link

23/11/2013 05:15:10 pm

hi sara
just amazed by your images, superb. I live in the uk but now have a remote imaging set up in nerpio in spain at astrocamp. your images are something for me to aspire to. br chris

Sara

24/11/2013 01:29:15 am

Thanks Chris for your kind words - I really look forward to seeing your images from Astrocamp.

KoCS link

3/12/2013 10:35:25 am

Really nice set of images, and a nice clean design for the site.

Sara

4/12/2013 01:28:44 am

Thanks for looking - Glad that you like the site format!

Gordon

5/12/2013 04:28:44 am

Sara, stunning images as ever! Really well put together site and boy, what a helpful partner!
Gordon

Sara

5/12/2013 05:31:45 am

Thanks Gordon, I'm glad that you like my images and the site. My husband is very helpful and understanding - He reads these comments too!!!

Ken (Kew) link

22/12/2013 04:03:29 am

Very interesting build. Love the pics, hoping to get there myself. with my DSLR one day. Ken

Sara

22/12/2013 04:41:58 am

Thanks Ken - The obs, while potentially fraught with issues has worked out perfectly. Good luck with your imaging.

Kirk

22/12/2013 10:58:36 am

Hi Sara,
I love your site and your observatory! You have done some very impressive work. Keep it up. Thanks for finding me on flickr.
--Kirk

Sara

23/12/2013 02:29:55 am

Cheers Kirk - The observatory has worked out really well. Thanks for your kind words.

Bob Hertelu link

4/1/2014 08:03:45 pm

Hi, Sara,
I am using an ATIK 314L+ on my TEC140 and am considering the 460EX mono. I'd be interested in whether you find the latter to be step up in narrowband sensitivity-Thanks! Bob Hertel, New Jersey

Sara Wager

6/1/2014 01:19:58 am

While the 314L+ is an excellent camera, I do find the 460 more efficient and also with a far more pleasing field of view. Coupled with the 3nm Astrodon filters, I find the 460 a winning combination for sure.

Michael Mantini

29/6/2014 02:41:22 pm

Thank You Sara. I ended getting a 5nm Ha, and 3nm SII and OIII. I also am interested in capturing planetary nebula, and I believe the 5nm Ha will help me to achieve that goal.

David Crane link

31/1/2014 11:38:52 am

Hi Sara
Thanks for all your help.
Keep up the good work with your astrophotography, it looks fantastic.
Kind regards
David

Sara Wager

31/1/2014 01:29:03 pm

Thanks David - I hope that you find some folks near you soon ...!

Pavel link

7/2/2014 06:43:54 am

Very neat website, very good observatory, fantastic photos! Wish i could be like you!

Best regards, Pavel.

Sara Wager

8/2/2014 03:22:54 am

Thanks Pavel, your comments are most kind. We all start from the same place though!

Brenda

8/2/2014 04:39:32 pm

Hi Sara great pics carry on the great work, look forward to more. brena

Sara Wager

9/2/2014 01:32:19 am

Thanks Brenda, glad that you like my pics! I will definitely be carrying on, so pop back and see my new stuff from time to time!

Roger B link

11/2/2014 01:05:24 pm

Hi Sara,

Fantastic images there, How I envy your clear skies ( nothing like the UK)

Sara Wager

12/2/2014 03:37:01 am

Thanks Roger - Sadly my clear skies have been lacking of late - Fingers crossed for some clear, windless nights soon!

Brenda

19/2/2014 04:01:17 am

Hi Sara, What amazing pics, keep up the good work B x

Sara Wager

20/2/2014 01:16:09 am

Thanks! Glad that you like them!!

Paul link

25/2/2014 04:56:44 am

Love the site, have looked at many obsy builds but on top of another building must be the most difficult of them all - well done !!

Am enjoying your work with the C9.25 and can't wait for you to turn it to some galaxy work.

Paul

Sara Wager

26/2/2014 12:40:54 am

Thanks for your comments Paul - The observatory really wasn't too tricky, coupled with the fact that there was no where else it could go, so it had to fit! I hope to do some galaxy work soon, just finishing off the SII data in SII for IC417.

John Taylor

10/3/2014 04:51:21 pm

Congratulation for AAPOD Sara!

Sara

11/3/2014 02:28:30 am

Thanks John!

Dennis Isaacs link

13/3/2014 06:09:04 am

Hi Sara, only just found your website, don't know what took me so long. Like it a lot. It's good to see you keeping a record of the astounding progress you have made in such a short time.

Dennis

Sara Wager

13/3/2014 02:44:07 pm

Thanks Dennis - I'm glad that you found me .... eventually!! You know that without your help and advice I wouldn't be at this point now. I really do appreciate the time that you give me.

Warren Keller link

19/3/2014 06:46:12 pm

Wow Ms. Sara, I was unfamiliar w/ your work until I saw an image via Atik's Facebook. I was their N. American rep for two years. Anyway, I'd be pleased to trade links to one another if you like my site. Keep up the most impressive work! Appreciate you telling new imagers about our educational resource www.ip4ap.com.

Thanks, WK

Sara Wager

20/3/2014 04:58:05 am

Many thanks for your kind words Warren, that sure is something coming from someone as renowned as you in the field of AP. I have never looked at your tutorials. If you want me to take a look at some and make recommendations from there I will gladly do so. You can contact me via the site if you are interested in taking this further. I have added your site in my links section. I look forward to hearing from you!

Alan

19/4/2014 02:52:55 am

Sara,Absolutely fantastic images, very impressed. ;)

Sara Wager

22/4/2014 06:26:52 am

Many thanks for your kind words Alan.

Stephen Harris

1/5/2014 09:24:24 am

Great images! As a newbe with version 1.0 gear, I enjoyed (and learned) reading about your progressions with priorities and equipment.

Sara

1/5/2014 12:48:48 pm

Thanks Stephen - I'm glad that you found the equipment section useful. Good luck with your imaging, we all start from the same place!

Clas

5/5/2014 01:57:47 pm

Dear Sara,

What a nice site you got here, good story not to mention your fabulous images. I look forward to follow it.

Greetings from your Finnish friend,

Clas

Sara

7/5/2014 09:04:53 am

Many thanks Clas for visiting my site and I'm glad that you enjoyed it!

Michael link

12/5/2014 11:28:26 am

Good Day Sara,

I really enjoyed your site. I'm getting ready to transition into Narrowband and I'm on the fence regarding going with a 3nm or 5nm Ha filter. I realize that I loose the NII lines with the 3nm, but I gain contrast with the 3nm. Based on your experience do you personally have a recommendation?

Keep up the great work!

Thank You,
Mike

Sara

14/5/2014 09:25:02 am

Hi Michael, I really do rate the 3nm Ha filter and having some from a 7nm originally I really did notice the extra contrast and clean look to the images. If you are starting from scratch, then I think the 3nm is a good starting point. It's a super filter.

Wim van Ooijen

29/6/2014 04:26:08 am

Hej Sara,I do only observing, mainly because you can´t beat Hubble. But having seen your work, I am really impressed! Not unlike Hubble:)
\\ Wim

Sara Wager

29/6/2014 02:17:43 pm

Many thanks Wim, I'm glad that you like my work!!

brian

13/7/2014 09:44:05 am

Not a member of stargazers.com, so I cannot post there, but saw your comments at http://stargazerslounge.com/topic/194811-very-simple-rain-sensor-required-any-pointers/ . FYI, Noticed the following at Target. http://www.target.com/p/wireless-rain-gauge-black-ws-9004u-it-cbp/-/A-10721465 Please pass it on.

Sara Wager

17/7/2014 06:54:02 am

Thanks Brian, this isn't quite what I was after, but it certainly looks useful for a wireless rain gauge.

James aka jbgrooves @ stargazer lounge

22/7/2014 04:19:13 pm

Hi Sara,
Thanks for the welcome over at the lounge. I am so impressed by the knowledge, helpfulness, and kind welcome so many afforded me there.
You astrophotography is beautiful. You have a good eye.
FYI love Espaina was fortunate enough to visit the Costa Brava area one trip.
All the best
jb

Sara Wager

23/7/2014 02:24:33 am

Hi jb,

Many thanks for your comments. SGL is a good place to seek help and advise, most of what I have learnt has been through the forum! Spain is great, I love it!!!

Robert DiIorio

24/7/2014 07:00:49 am

Hi Sara
Your work is wonderful!

Sara Wager

24/7/2014 07:22:50 am

Thank you Robert, that is most kind!

Jack Knesevich

25/8/2014 10:34:25 am

Sara,
Your presentation is fantastic! The temperature fluctuations between day and night are impressive as well. Out of 365, what percentage approximately are your nights satisfactory for astrophotography?-Jack

Sara Wager

28/8/2014 02:26:51 am

Hi Jack. Thanks for your comments, glad you like my work. I think I probably get between 15-20 clear nights a month on average. It's very difficult to gauge.

Sakib link

2/9/2014 03:29:19 am

Hello Sara
You have some wonderful images, especially the areas in Cygnus.
Also there is a hidden secret in the Crescent Nebula widefield!

Sara Wager

3/9/2014 10:53:49 am

Thank you for your comments - I'm glad that you like my images. The hidden secret in Cygnus is the Soap Bubble I presume? Very clearly shown in my Crescent shot!

Robert

2/9/2014 06:41:27 am

Great work! Thank you.

Sara Wager

3/9/2014 10:54:13 am

Thank you Robert!

Daniel Coe link

9/9/2014 08:53:47 am

Hi, great looking website with some nice images. Read through your equipment upgrades page - sounds just like myself.

Perhaps we can link exchange between our websites?

Sara

18/9/2014 05:52:22 am

Thanks Daniel - Have added your link to my site!

Charles Duarte link

12/9/2014 01:19:47 pm

Hi Sara, i am setting up a very similar setup as your (AO + QSI), but not sure how to connect both together to the most nearest position. Just email Starlight Xpress (Terry) and told me that the BFD is 50mm, but found impossible with given adapter, if its not too much to ask, can you tell what adapter did you use to connect both units, and also the other end of the AO (i also have a celestron 9.25" HD) adapter. Thanks

Sara

12/9/2014 03:33:49 pm

The SXAO unit comes with a T thread adapter - I screwed that directly into my QSI. That's it, no adapters or spacing needed. AT the scope end of the AO I use a 2" nosepeice that goes directly into the focuser.

Hope that helps.

Charles Duarte link

21/9/2014 01:46:50 am

Hi Sara thanks for the tip, I have the train connected, but need some help on the cable setup, How did you connected the cables to the Lodestar, AO and the mount. Did you connected the AO to the lodestar and the AO to the mount guiding socket???

Finally, in Maxim DL setup, did only used the setting up of only Camera 1 given that the second camera is in practice
part of the QSI.

Thanks

Sara

21/9/2014 02:05:45 am

There's a serial cable from the AO unit that needs to go to the computer. I have a serial USB adapter for this. The other cables goes to the mount. The Lodestar goes into the USB. The Lodestar and SX don't connect between themselves. Have you seen this? http://astro.azurewebsites.net/Article/ArticleContent/5

In Maxim I have the capture camera set up in 1 and the Lodestar in camera 2, set as universal SX. From there you need to enable the AO unit. It's all explained in the blog link above. Hope that helps.

Will Barnick

17/9/2014 11:51:20 am

Sara,
Great work, as I mentioned on Facebook. When you get your first FIT images ... Are they monochrome? Are they 16-bit or 8-bit image depth? When you process in Photoshop is the image already reduced to 8-bits per RGB channel? Sorry about all the questions.

Sara

18/9/2014 05:48:36 am

Thanks William, The fits images when they come from the camera are monochrome - The camera is mono, so has no way of producing a colour image as it stands. They are 16-bit depth and I work with 16-bit throughout the processing stage, I never reduce to 8-bit as it loses detail.

Sara

18/9/2014 05:50:40 am

Thanks Will, The fits images when they come from the camera are monochrome - The camera is mono, so has no way of producing a colour image as it stands. They are 16-bit depth and I work with 16-bit throughout the processing stage, I never reduce to 8-bit as it loses detail.

Tyler Ferrari

18/9/2014 10:49:45 am

I appreciate your dedication to obtaining crazy amounts of narrowband data before integrating. Awesome images Sara...

Sara

19/9/2014 11:48:22 am

Thank you Tyler - I like crazy amounts of data, it makes everything much easier!

Shazzie

19/9/2014 10:28:51 am

Hey Brooksie,

Awesome photo's. I'm really impressed at what you have accomplished. Hope you are having the time of your life. Love to all and keep on "flashing"!!!

Sara

19/9/2014 11:49:18 am

Sharrrrron, what's taken you so long to find me?!!! Glad you like my pics, keep smiling!!

Charles Duarte link

22/10/2014 09:32:05 am

Hi Sara, as mentioned previously I using a very similar imaging setup as yours, Its composed of the following:
C9.25"
SX-AO
QSI 632 (wsg)

In Celestron website they have the BFD as 146.05mm from the tube rear end flange to the imaging sensor, and from the SX-AO the optimum distance to the sensor is 108mm, if its not too much asking is this more or less the distance that you have with your imaging train??

KR

Charles

Sara Wager

22/10/2014 10:07:22 am

Hi Charles. I don't have the C9.25 any more to check. I had a Baader Clicklock adapter in the focuser, the SXAO went straight into that using a nosepiece and the QSI screwed straight into the SXAO. I have a picture of it on the equipment section. I didn't take any measurements at all, so have no idea about them.... Sorry.

Regards

Sara

tony

22/10/2014 02:37:35 pm

Hi Sara, never noticed your guestbook before so a big hello from me, love the site btw, it's great. Video tutorials next? lol

Sara

22/10/2014 03:00:11 pm

Thanks Tony - No video tutorials from me :)

Christine link

29/10/2014 02:13:38 pm

Hi Sara, do you ever do workshops or talks to astronomy groups or perhaps a small number of people trying to have a go at astro photography? You can see from our groups website that they are having some success.

Sara Wager

30/10/2014 04:12:36 am

Hi Christine. I haven't done anything like this before, but I'll drop you an email about some possibilities.

Melvin

8/11/2014 03:27:58 am

hello Sara I have looked at the books you recommend and have decided that for Xmas my wife can but me 'making every photon count'. I am just starting in the DSLR field so what every I can get to give me decent instruction I'll get. Thanks

Sara

14/11/2014 01:34:29 am

It's a great book Melvin, you'll not be disappointed.

Dave Williams.

13/11/2014 02:11:36 pm

That RC scope is looking damn good ! I have a feeling it will be producing some killer shots really soon. Nice :)

Sara

14/11/2014 01:36:32 am

Cheers Dave - I don't think it's going to be the nightmare that I was expecting with collimation and to be able to run both scopes on the Avalon is a bonus. Poor mount!!!

Melvin

1/12/2014 04:04:02 am

hello Sara I am an absolute novice at the astrophotography game and as I live in a very light polluted area seeing (when we have clear skies) anything such as your pics has never happened to me although I go to my local golf club to escape some of the pollution I can only dream of seeing the universe as others in the World can. Thanks for posting them.

Sara

2/12/2014 12:33:22 pm

Many thanks Melvin - We all started from the same place, none of us were born astronomers. With patience and perseverance you'll get there. Good luck.

Sara

2/12/2014 12:34:24 pm

Thanks Melvin - With patience I am sure that you will get there. Good luck!

Pat Rodgers (patthehorse)

1/12/2014 06:25:48 pm

Your images are an inspiration Sara. Hubble quality from Earth. Great to see all your pics in one place. Keep them coming.
Pat.

Sara Wager

2/12/2014 12:35:11 pm

Thank you Pat!

Bruce link

17/12/2014 08:49:23 am

Enjoy visiting your website and also seeing your images on Astrobin and Flickr. Its been fun watching your equipment changes over time - it seems we always need to tweak things just a little more... :-)

Looking forward to seeing more images from your 8" RC!

Clear skies

Sara Wager

21/12/2014 12:08:58 am

Thanks Bruce! I'm hoping I've reached the end of my tweaking for a little while ... LOL!! Does it ever end? I am enjoying the 8" RC. It's a great scope.

Mary Kirwan-Mackey

20/12/2014 04:39:26 pm

Hi Sara,
You have captured amazing images. Love the ones you post on SGL too. Just saw your Christmas Tree Nebula featured on Sky@Night on 14th December. Congratulations.
Mary

Sara Wager

21/12/2014 12:09:46 am

Thanks Mary - It was really nice to be featured on S@N!

Steve link

27/12/2014 01:50:54 pm

Beautiful work. Can't wait to pass on from this miserable existence here in earth to perhaps become one passing around these stars.

Sara Wager

28/12/2014 08:47:38 am

Cheers Steve - How different it may all seem from within?!

Ian Dowling

12/1/2015 04:39:52 am

Wonderful images, Sara, I love seeing your work on SGL. I hope you keep them coming, truly inspirational stuff!

Sara Wager

26/1/2015 12:29:21 am

Many thanks Ian. I keep my website updated and also post my images on FB so you can keep up with my progress!

Richard

18/1/2015 01:10:16 pm

Hi Sara.

Nice shots in the gallery. How close du you get with the first equipment you had ? As compare. I thinking about buying somthing similar, is it recomended or should I spend some x1000€ more direct or wait some times before and get bored with the beginners stuff. The eveloution in yor system growth pretty quick:) and also the investments I guess :)
Best regards
Richard

Sara Wager

15/3/2015 01:52:54 pm

Ho Richard, It's hard to recommend any kit to others. I would suggest that you spend some time with the various field of view calculators out there and really get a feel for the different scopes / camera combos.

Guilherme

23/1/2015 12:49:09 pm

AMAZING!
I imagine that here in Sao Paulo, Brazil , EVEN Clean sky, Would not Be Possible such amazing photos !

Sara Wager

26/1/2015 12:29:59 am

Thank you glad that you like my images!

Terry L Moore link

25/1/2015 09:21:03 pm

Sara you are incredible, I enjoyed reading each part of your site, I could not stop reading it. if at any time you want to post an article on " The Observers " please feel free to do so. I do not want to take away from your sales, I would like to think that it just might increase your sales in stead. I do not care for promoting sales on the page, however if you were to include your web sites URL in the text such as a contributing editor, well now how could I say any thing.
Terry

Sara Wager

26/1/2015 12:31:03 am

Many thanks Terry. I will certainly put something onto 'The Observers' and then people can ask any questions that they have. Thanks for your support.

Andrija Ilic link

21/2/2015 05:02:35 pm

Incredible work, congratulations. And thank you for letting us see the Universe

Sara Wager

15/3/2015 01:50:21 pm

Thanks - Glad that you like my work!

Paul C

26/3/2015 02:12:39 pm

Great work Sara , and the website is wonderful too

Sara Wager

5/4/2015 06:00:08 am

Thanks Paul - Glad that you like it!

Richard Willits

1/4/2015 11:59:26 am

Your site is very informative. I enjoyed it and learned some new things. Thank you for taking the time to share your knowledge and experience.

Sara Wager

5/4/2015 06:01:04 am

Thanks Ricard - I'm glad that you found it informative - I have tried to add stuff that I thought people would find useful along the way.

Melvin Atkins

5/4/2015 05:07:44 am

hi Sara I would like to vote for the astrophotograph but I cannot speak Spanish. Point me in the right direction so that I can vote. Some great pics you have.

Sara Wager

5/4/2015 06:01:48 am

Many thanks Melvin - The link for the voting in English is http://www.astroshop.eu/advice/star-of-europe/c,9164

FenlandPaul

4/5/2015 02:22:23 am

Just browsed through - some lovely images on here. The one in the gallery of M51 is the most stunning picture I've ever seen of that object (and I've seen a few!). Amazing. Thanks for sharing.

Paul

Sara Wager

4/5/2015 01:17:35 pm

Hi Paul, many thanks for looking and glad that you like my images. Much appreciated!

Greg Mihalik link

11/6/2015 10:29:00 am

Love your site and setup. In regards to #8 on the equipment page, I hope you never stop making improvements to your setup, as your journey is a guide to the rest of us.

Sara Wager

16/6/2015 10:49:27 am

Thank you Greg - You'll be pleased to know there are a few more changes in the pipeline!!!

Jean Dean link

23/8/2015 04:16:36 am

Your web site is an inspiration. I seem to have followed the same path as you but I am not quite there with an observatory yet. I have just bought a Starlight Xpress Trius SX814 mono CCD and have begun my first narrow band images. Your images are fantastic and something to aspire to.

Sara Wager

31/8/2015 03:52:39 pm

Thanks Jean - I'm glad that you've found my website useful. I wush you lots of luck!

(Mr) Shevill Mathers AKA-AstroTasmania link

29/8/2015 08:19:23 pm

Hi Sara,
Great website, very well set out and presented with adequate details about the many superb images, both of your equipment and celestial objects. Very easy to navigate, all a credit to you. I love good presentation.

Sara Wager

31/8/2015 03:53:28 pm

Thanks for your kind words - Much appreciated. I've revamped the site a little, so I hope you like it just as much!

(Mr) Shevill Mathers-AKA AstroTasmania link

29/8/2015 08:32:15 pm

Post Script, My journey has been a very long one, starting in the early 60's building my own scopes and cameras etc. when film and darkrooms were the norm for advanced amateur astronomers. I was fortunate to have the friendship and support of people like Sir Patrick Moore, a driving force in astronomy if ever there was one.
A bit of my history via a few images. https://picasaweb.google.com/109921669020426367250/HistoricalTelescopesSomeMediaArticlesVarious?authuser=0&feat=directlink

Sara Wager

31/8/2015 03:54:42 pm

That's really interesting and great images and information in your link - Thank you so much.

Ayman

22/9/2015 02:06:39 pm

Hi Sara,

Thanks for the detailed info on books and equipment. I've actually just ordered all the image processing ones from Amazon to start learning that first.
Between living conditions and budget considerations, the APO/CCD will come in about 2-3 years. Currently sticking to visual and might try a bit of AP with my EQ6/EdgeHD 9.25, but doubt I can tackle that much focal length as a beginner.

Wishing you the best
Ayman

Sara Wager

28/10/2015 09:36:59 am

Hi Ayman

Good luck with the processing!!! There's no rush, the stars aren't going anywhere !!!

Regards

Sara

Dennis Isaacs link

9/10/2015 06:09:12 pm

Hi Sara, it seems I actually visited your site some time ago but memory being what it is...
I must say you have come on in leaps and bounds. The time you put in and the attention to detail is really paying dividends. Rarely have I seen so much benefit from equipment upgrades, you are really getting your full mileage. Absolutely stunning collection of nb images , you can hold your head up with the best. No doubt.

Sara Wager

28/10/2015 09:39:10 am

Hi Dennis,

Thank you for your kind words. Many of the improvements are down to the help that people such as yourself have offered. Without you then things would have taken so much longer and been much more painful!!

You know that I always value your input and thoughts.

Regards

Sara

Juan link

26/10/2015 05:58:31 pm

Sara !! One of the best astrophotographers today!!

Sara Wager

1/11/2015 09:05:55 am

Thank you Juan - That is kind of you to say!

Steve Richards link

31/10/2015 05:52:41 pm

Congratulations on your APOD image, Sara.

I have really enjoyed watching you progress with your astro-imaging and although you don't need an APOD win to seal your success, it is great to see your work honoured in this manner.

Fantastic work!

Best wishes,

Steve

Sara Wager

1/11/2015 09:07:58 am

Hi Steve,

Many thanks for popping by and leaving your comment. It means a lot to me, especially as you know how important you have been with regards to my progress.

I hope that I can be as helpful as you have to me for other people in the hobby.

Regards

Sara

Dennis Isaacs link

1/11/2015 01:11:02 pm

It took my addled brain ages to find this APOD. Glad I persevered, typically wonderful piece of work.

Sara Wager

27/12/2015 07:15:29 pm

Thanks Dennis!

David Lane

27/12/2015 04:59:31 pm

Sara is well known for the superb quality of her images, so I felt very privileged to spend 2-3 days with Sara at her home in Spain recently being taught how best to edit the raw data.
I learnt so much, and Sara approaches the task in a very easy non-technical way.
Nothing was too much trouble, and Sara was always willing to go over things again for numpties like myself.
One also had the opportunity to look over her observatory, and if the weather was kind to actually do some imaging.
Sara’s husband Steve is an excellent cook, which was an added bonus.
Sitting out on the terrace in the warm sunshine after a lovely meal with a glass of wine (or two), was one of the most memorable parts of an all too short a visit.

Sara Wager

31/12/2015 01:23:53 pm

Many thanks for your comments David. I am glad that you enjoyed your time and found it useful.

It was great to meet you and look forward to seeing you in 2016 !!

Brendan Kinch link

27/12/2015 09:13:54 pm

Have looked in a few times - but never got to actually leave any comment before now. I was following Sara's work long before I had the opportunity to meet up. She certainly has inspired me to keep going and as someone mentioned above - her attention to detail is what makes her images stand out. One thing I have learned from her...one or two hours won't cut it. Still, I have a way to go to display the patience she does in capturing the photons.....just still can't figure out how she can wait so long before publishing her shots.....but therein lies her true talent for fantastic images. Just now, reading how much effort she has put in for testing a new mount....well, that says it all.
Hope to meet up again in 2016 Sara.....here is wishing you clear skies....as long as they stretch just a little further south also :-)

Sara Wager

31/12/2015 01:22:22 pm

Many thanks for your kind words Brendan! Lets hope we do meet up again in 2016 and meanwhile, if you can just stay out of Spain a little longer as you really seem to bring the bad weather

Terry link

31/12/2015 12:43:53 am

Just looking at your new mount, I must say it looks massive. Looking for flow ups

Sara

31/12/2015 01:20:49 pm

Cheers Terry - It's all ongoing and I hoe to add to it along the way :)

Robert

31/12/2015 05:38:17 pm

Thank you for sharing with the rest of the world. Enjoy everything you have done and all that you do share. Have a Happy New Year and clear skies.

Sara

11/1/2016 08:00:46 pm

Thanks Robert - Wishing you a great 2016!

Arry

11/1/2016 06:28:10 pm

Well, I started with the intention of having a look at a couple of your images - then read the whole site lol. Not content with that, I spend a further couple of hours annoying my wife with...OMG, WOW and "come n ave a look at this one"...I dunno, what can I say...I can't find a superlative that matches the majesty of your work. It is inspirational, especially for an AP beginner like myself.

Sara

11/1/2016 08:02:14 pm

Many thanks Arry, I'm glad that you enjoyed the site and found it useful. If I can help at all with your AP journey then just give me a shout - None of us were born knowing this stuff and I think we should share it with others :)

Simon Tillman

24/1/2016 04:22:47 pm

Hi Sara, I have I have taking images of the heavens for many years with varying degrees of success but your images of nebulae are some of the best I have seen which I first spotted in Astronomy now magazine, so I had to check out your website. keep up the good work

Sara Wager

4/2/2016 04:37:20 pm

Many thanks for your kind words Simon. I'm glad that you enjoyed the website - I am adding to it all of the time ...... when the weather and conditions allow LOL!!

pedro-rafael

1/2/2016 12:26:50 pm

beyond the shadow of a doubt who made the universe is a great artist

Sara Wager

4/2/2016 04:36:16 pm

Thanks Pedro!

Aleix link

15/3/2016 10:16:01 pm

Really espectacular images Sara! I am also in Spain, in the Tarragona region. And I'm also thinking on going forma CCD in a near future due to hot summer temperatures. We'll see...

Thanks for sharing all your activities.

Are you a professional astrophotographer? Or it's "just" a passionate hobby?

Sara Wager

19/3/2016 09:10:52 am

Thanks for your kind words. If I can help at all with your CCD choice then drop me an email. You need to get one with good cooling, so that rules out a few.

I'm just a passionate hobbyist!!!

Fabio Mirra

25/4/2016 01:55:48 pm

Dear Sara, thanks for sharing your experience with us on the web. Very nice website, like it. Congratulations to you for the Job achieved until today ;) Take care Fabio

Sara Wager

25/4/2016 02:00:48 pm

Thank you Fabio! I'm glad that you like the website, I try to put as much information on the site to help others :)

Steve Bruton

19/5/2016 05:25:12 pm

Hi Sara ... am just starting out with my newly acquired 14" SCT and am based in Herefordshire on the edge of the Brecon Beacons.What an inspiration your work is ... this will give me a new direction to look at when I get set up if you have any tips,with ccd`s to give they will be welcome Steve

Sara Wager

20/5/2016 12:54:51 pm

Thanks Steve for your comments - I'm hope that you continue to find my work useful and the website as well. I've got lots of thoughts about CCD's, so if you have any specific questions just drop me an email through the 'contact me' page :)

Ian Grantham

9/6/2016 05:34:35 pm

Great website Sara and loving the content from the tutorials to your blogs

Sara Wager

9/6/2016 06:32:49 pm

Thanks Ian for your kind words...... If there's anything you can think of that you'd like to see on my website, then just let me know and I'll see if I can add it :)

Rodd

14/6/2016 09:19:29 pm

Great Site--I particularly like your assessment of binning and # of subs. The biggest surprise, however, was encountering the word Pixinsight on your web site ;)

Sara Wager

16/7/2016 04:41:43 pm

I did try Pixinsght for a while Rodd!!

Allan

20/8/2016 04:31:16 pm

Your pics are amazing. I dream of this quality and beauty. Ty for sharing this. Can't wait to see more.

Sara Wager

20/8/2016 06:10:18 pm

Than k you Allan for dropping by and taking the time to write a comment. If you subscribe to my blog you'll see all the new stuff as well as ongoing projects as they happen!!!

drivingcat link

26/8/2016 02:36:31 pm

I saw you "liked" one of my images on Astrobin and looked you up. Holy crap you're amazing! What an honor!

Sara

28/8/2016 07:32:20 pm

Thanks for your kind words ..... remember we all started from the same place :)

Mark link

7/9/2016 01:40:12 pm

Hi Sara,
You advised me on my disheartened thread on SGL.
I would just like to thank you very much for the guide, it will prove most useful.
Mark.

Sara Wager

23/9/2016 05:35:17 pm

Glad I was able to help Mark :)

Terry

21/9/2016 02:53:20 pm

Sara you put a lot of time in to your photos and it shows FANTASTIC
WORK.

Sara Wager

23/9/2016 05:36:19 pm

Thank you Terry - Very kind of you to say.

Steve Duffy

13/10/2016 06:51:20 pm

Hi Sara. I didn't see a lot of comments congratulating you for your APOD on October 11. So...congratulations! It's well deserved, you've been doing excellent work for a while now.

Sara Wager

16/10/2016 10:31:28 pm

Thank you Steve for your kind comments!! The APOD was a very nice surprise indeed :)

Juan Carlos link

16/10/2016 09:50:58 pm

Lo que haces me parece maravilloso, descubrir el universo es fantastico, excelentes fotos, gracias!

Sara Wager

16/10/2016 10:31:59 pm

Muchas gracias Juan!!

Nick Pavelchak link

17/10/2016 10:13:30 pm

Sara,

Congratulations on your APOD this week!

Sara Wager

17/10/2016 10:15:58 pm

Many thanks Nick

Fernando Pinheiro Guimaraes

21/10/2016 04:17:48 pm

I love your work, I always came here to drink your knowledge.
Thank you very much for keeping this website up and running and share so nice hints,
Fernando

Sara Wager

23/10/2016 05:06:00 pm

Thanks Fernando! If I can help anymore then do contact me. I'm glad that you find the website useful.

Jim Stefancic

28/10/2016 02:48:50 am

I just finished reading your tutorial on mosaic AP, and I am sooooo glad that I followed the link to your web site. Wonderful info for me, a newly enthralled astro-photographer. Thank you for the great insight.
Jim

Sara Wager

28/10/2016 08:47:09 am

Thanks Jim, I'm glad that you've found my site useful...... I try to make it accessible for people at all levels with different articles etc

Dominic Starley

10/11/2016 10:40:04 pm

Wow.Just followed your link from stargazerslounge.I'm amazed.I didn't even know this was possible. Truly stunned.

Sara Wager

13/11/2016 09:25:28 am

Cheers Dominic - I'm glad that you like the images, I hope that it can inspire you along the way :)

Dieter link

22/11/2016 06:41:09 pm

Hi Sara

your pictures are very nice.
If I have more time then I perhaps also as beautiful pictures as you.
My English is not that good.

Dieter

Sara Wager

25/11/2016 06:34:17 pm

Thank you Dieter - Your comments are very kind.... I wish you luck in your imaging also :)

Tim

25/11/2016 01:02:27 am

Amazing pictures and superb processing skills, it is one thing to obtain the data and quiet another to make it look fantastic. You set the bar very high indeed, a great inspiration for beginners like me. You website, the layout and all the information is commendable and appreciated . Thank You.

Sara Wager

25/11/2016 06:35:42 pm

Thanks Tim for your thoughts. I'm really glad that you have found my website to be useful.... that's really the main aim, to pass on information about things i have learnt during the last few years :)

Janez Skubic

27/11/2016 03:47:38 pm

You are getting fashinating results! This is helpfull since it validates my own ambitions pursuing this endeavour. It can be done!
In the face of the mounting costs and the required time to get somwhere one can start felling being lost and discouraged. Thank you for publishing also ways of doing it, Janez

Sara Wager

6/12/2016 08:41:16 am

Thanks for your comments Jenez and I'm glad that I'm able to help you see the way forward :)

Aleix link

5/12/2016 11:55:57 pm

Congratulations for your new "dream setup". 2 FSQ85 x 2 KAF8300 CCD on a solid Mesu 200.
To double the exposing time it's a great idea. Specially for those long, long, narrowband exposures.

Thanks for sharing all your progress. It has helped me a lot to choose different parts of my equipment (for ex: my FSQ85).

Best wishes and clear winter nights,

Aleix

Sara Wager

6/12/2016 08:42:23 am

Thanks Aleix for your comments - I'm glad that my progress has helped you!

john

31/12/2016 12:30:02 am

WOW.

Sara Wager

15/2/2017 08:37:39 pm

Thanks!

Jim

10/1/2017 04:57:03 am

Your photos made me say "wow!" They are beautiful! The only thing I have ever photographed was the moon and a few planets - but not zoomed in more than 40x. They were also not colorised. Be assured more people will be stopping by to view your photos as someone posted a link to the Witch's Nebula on an online course at FutureLearn.com relating to Orion. I will be stopping by again and again as I get the free time. Just so many beautiful photos! Thank you.

Sara Wager

15/2/2017 08:32:49 pm

Many thanks for your comments Jim :)

Ray

16/2/2017 11:36:36 pm

Fantastic site and images Sarah. Thanks for taking the time to share your art with us all, it really is inspirational.

Sara Wager

17/2/2017 11:24:23 am

Thank you Ray - I'm glad that you enjoyed the site :)

Ruud

22/2/2017 11:35:50 pm

You have a beautiful website,Sara, with a magnificent collection of images. Excellent work!

Sara Wager

23/2/2017 03:54:09 pm

Thank you very much Ruud - Glad that you enjoyed the website :)

John Walker

6/4/2017 11:13:07 am

Fantastic images. It must cost a fortune to have the necessary equipment to photograph what can never be seen by the naked eye. After all, your 'subjects' are continually on the move, which must mean long, long exposures! Lovely!. Clearly you are a passionate, and gifted observer. Keep up the good work.

Sara Wager

7/4/2017 12:02:44 am

Many thanks for your comments John - I love astrophotography.... it is so interesting and dynamic.... Thanks for taking the time to stop by and comment :)

Jimmy link

7/4/2017 11:24:29 am

Stumbling in on your website I realize how much I need to do and buy to get this stunning results you have managed to catch, very impressive work. Just getting a CCD cam will probably not work for me as the weather is more or less bad all the time nowdays (Sweden) and CCD meaning triple time...
I will come back here and learn from your tips and tricks and just to admire your pics. Thanks.

Sara Wager

4/5/2017 01:09:34 pm

Thank you Jimmy for your kind words..... I hope that you can continue to find my site useful..... There's always a colour CCD :)

Good luck with your imaging :)

Roy

4/5/2017 12:41:13 pm

Saw your blog address on Astro shed and just had to take a look. Wow a roof top obsy. Hope to make my own one day, at the moment light street lighting pollution is proving a major problem for me. However we plan to move in a couple of years to darker skies.

Sara Wager

4/5/2017 01:11:03 pm

Thank you Roy - I'm glad that you found my blog and website. The roof top obsy was more necessity than design as we had no where to put anything else. It works well and narrowband always helps to combat light pollution :)

June & Chris

13/5/2017 07:47:27 pm

Wow, and Wow again! Absolutely stunning images.We are more than impressed. More please!!

Sara Wager

25/5/2017 07:15:05 am

I'm thrilled that you enjoyed the website and looking at the images! Just think you'll even get to see the 'engine room' in September!!! More will be in their way soon I promise!!!!

Javier Pardina link

4/6/2017 10:11:25 pm

Amazing work Sara, just WOW! thanks for share your point of view of Astrophotography!!! its really amazingl!!!

Sara Wager

5/6/2017 12:07:42 pm

Many thanks Javier - I'm pleased that you are enjoying my astrophotography :)

hector hernandez link

17/7/2017 10:00:27 pm

Hello Sara , very impressive work you got there! keep it going! ;D

Saludos desde Barcelona!

Sara Wager

23/7/2017 09:48:24 pm

Thank you Hector - I'm pleased that you have enjoyed the website :)

Constantine Lukashin link

23/7/2017 03:56:25 pm

Sara, many thanks for sharing your images and information on the AP ! Your work is really inspiring ! Constantine.

Sara Wager

23/7/2017 09:49:02 pm

Thanks!! I've tried to make my website accessible and informative for people :)

James

29/7/2017 12:38:42 am

Oops! I accidentally unsubscribed (with the help of my 3-year old granddaughter). Had to reply to something so I could continue receiving updates. Thank you for such beautiful photos.

Rodd

23/7/2017 07:59:09 pm

Sara,

I find your MCM intriguing. Often times it has happened that I could not finish a target in 1 year due to weather and position. This method provides for a way to create a colored image where one could not be created before. However, the procedure for accomplishing this is not discussed...anywhere (that I know of). Is this a PS thing, performed using stock PS tools, or did you have to write your own script or something?
Thanks,
Rodd

Sara Wager

23/7/2017 09:55:58 pm

I have never published the procedure as I became concerned that people would use it to try to create a Hubble palette looking image without full disclosure about the fact that it was nothing more than an artistic rendition..... I know that IF I do it then I will do everything I can (including text across the image saying what it is) - and I feel that we have responsibility to keep things as true as we can.

Mary Ebbott

2/8/2017 09:26:52 am

Hello Sara - Your images are stunningly beautiful. I am looking for advice re an astrophography book for my son's birthday. He has just finished a Master of Astrophysics and is also a Volcanologist. He does not have any special photography equipment but has told me that the next he wants to do is astrophotograhy. At the moment he cannot due to young children, finances, work etc. I am so confused about what book would be suitable for him as my knowledge consists only of gazing at the stars from my back yard.I would appreciate specific advice for my son who is a passionate and knowledgeable astrophysicist and amateur photographer. Thanks in anticipation - Mary

Sara Wager

2/8/2017 09:42:20 am

Hi Mary,

There's a few different disciplines in astro imaging, Deep Sky (galaxies and nebula), planetary, Solar and Lunar..... It sounds silly but these all require different equipment. I can only speak for Deep Sky (I'm not sure if this is what your son wants to do?)

A good book is 'Making Every photon Count' - This takes you through the complete process of Deep Sky imaging. It breaks it all down and makes the whole subject very accessible. It's also worth noting that anything that you currently know about photography is worth forgetting for astro work!!

I have a couple of other caveats... It can be very time consuming! Depending on the level you want to reach, each single image can take me 8-10 hours worth of processing!!

Depending again on what level you want to reach it can be very expensive......

Hope that helps :) If you have any other specific questions then feel free to ask.

Regards

Sara

Mary Ebbott

2/8/2017 10:53:33 pm

Thank you so much for your prompt and helpful reply Sara. Much appreciated. Your photos enable me to gaze into the sky from the desert in Australia and from Southern Tasmania and see it in a different and deeper way. Regards - Mary

James E. Bromley

3/8/2017 10:58:34 pm

Congratulations on your work being selected for the NASA Astronomy Picture of the Day. After viewing your website, it is apparent that many of your images would have qualified.

Sara Wager

3/10/2017 07:36:29 pm

Thank you James - Very kind of you to say :)

Sankalp

8/8/2017 12:19:06 pm

Wow , Amazing amazing photography pics, Love these beautiful pics

Sara Wager

3/10/2017 07:37:18 pm

Thanks!

Richard Oliver

31/8/2017 03:12:36 pm

Thank you for sharing your knowledge and skills. Having started deep sky imaging a year ago at 75, I'm a little late to the game. It has been an enjoyable struggle trying to learn both the imaging and processing techniques. The Internet has been very helpful. Your site is superb, and your images are beautiful. I've decided to try narrowband imaging because of severe light pollution, and your discussions are most helpful. Those 30 minute exposures scare me though. Thank you for the APP tutorials as well.

Sara Wager

3/10/2017 07:38:35 pm

Don't let age ever be a barrier Richard - Astro imaging is great at any age!! I'm glad that you found the website useful..... I've always tried to add things that I think will help others

Ferre

1/9/2017 07:15:48 pm

Impressive as always Sara, but that's not new ;)

Mike

3/10/2017 12:31:18 pm

Hello Sara,
I recently discovered your website and blog after looking for some interesting astro-photographer/astronomer blogs to follow. I find you content inspirational and most interesting.
I share your hobby, I have a small observing shed with a fixed pier and modest equipment (8" SCT) working from North Yorkshire in the UK. I long to expand my setup and dip my toes further into the world of astronomy and astro pics. I've dabbled with Lunar and planetary, deep sky, asteroid occulations, and recently got a quick look at SN2017eaw supernova. I find there is so much to learn and its such a challenge to spend limited resources cafefully to move forward. I look forward to continuing to follow your blog and wish you every success with your work. Mike.

Sara Wager

3/10/2017 07:40:34 pm

Many thanks for your kind words Mike - It's great to know that my website is helpful :) Good luck in your own astro imaging journey :)

Mike Nicholson

10/11/2017 08:36:54 am

Congrats on todays APOD Sara. Well done.

Aleix Roig link

15/12/2017 11:54:59 pm

The new website looks great! Congratulations on this new design. And, as always, thanks to share your experience. I can say that part of my achievements are thanks to your support.

Best regards,

Aleix

29/12/2017 12:39:35 am

Hello Sara. Thanks so much for sharing your work. We are on the verge of acquiring lakeside land in Down East Maine, with as little light pollution as most of us can hope to have these days, and a roof-top observatory is now on the priority list for the builders. Thanks for the inspiration.

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