Learning to process images with the help of this wonderful community [Deep Sky] Processing techniques · Deep Space Remote Observatories - Steve Mandel, Bob Fera, and Steeve Body · ... · 7 · 340 · 0

I just wanted to write a note of deep gratitude to the community for the wonderful spirit, sharing nature, and great support I have received while coming back to imaging after an 18-year hiatus.

Honestly, I felt like Rip Van Winkle, gone for a long time and waking up to a completely new world.  It was daunting, shocking, and downright intimidating.  New hardware, new software for every system, and something called PixInsight, which at first glance looked completely insane to me (now I use it.)  And AstroBin, so cool!   Also, I'm almost 75 years old and so felt that maybe it's too late to learn, you know, teaching an old dog new tricks.

I reached out to old friends and new ones I 've made in the past year.  First was Bob Fera my telescope partner in Deep Space Remote Observatories.  He generously shared his knowledge, not only of the hardware/software required to operate a remotely controlled CDK 17", but also in how to process images.

Others, when I asked for help, quickly offered their advice, mentoring, showing me their processing flow, and were all so supportive.  I took PixInsight lessons from Ron Breacher, a great teacher.  Many people on AstroBin helped me.  Tim Martin, Detlef Schmidt, Ani Shastry, Eric Coles, Kevin Morefield, Simon Tang, Tim Hutchison, Steeve Body, Mark Johnson,  Russ Croman, and many others were extremely generous and helpful.  What a wonderful community of people, what an open and supportive group.  I truly felt like I had come home to a warm and wonderful greeting after wandering in the wilderness for many years.  It was a bit startling to be taken in under so many wings so quickly.  But, what an incredibly wonderful feeling.  I’m home now and will be staying for the foreseeable future.

So thanks to all of you astroimagers who are generous and giving of your most important asset, your time.  It is very deeply appreciated.  I promise to continue with that same spirit you have all shown to me and never take this community for granted.  Thanks again, and a very Happy New Year to all.

Thank you. Most of those were processed by my telescope partner, Bob Fera.

What a great tribute to write to folks.  Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

I also came back from a 10 year hiatus and it's great to know that in general, the amateur astrophotography community is really open to share their knowledge. I was blown away by the tools that have been released for Pixinsight that facilitate the processing of images tremendously (BlurX, NoiseX, StarX, SetiAstro, etc.), And I am so glad to have a lot of quality content in youtube that explain how to best use those tools. 

Thanks everyone and I wish you happy holidays!

Kaetsu