Orion's Belt & Sword

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Technical data:

Scope:		Borg 100ED F4 (super reducer)
Mount:		Losmandy G11
Guider:		SBIG STV / Borg 76ED @ F6.6
Camera:		Planet Town 6x7 vacuum-back astro camera
Film:		Kodak E200 (+2 push)
Exposure:		53 minutes

The constellation Orion includes a rich area of nebulosity. In this deep exposure, wide shot, which includes the belt and sword region, visible are part of Barnard's loop, the Flame Nebula, Horsehead Nebula, Great Orion Nebula (M42), and numerous lesser pieces of NGC cataloged nebulosity. Also visible is a general background of H-alpha (red) emission nebulosity engulfing virtually all of the lower part of the frame. In this shot the bright stars have noticeable haloes due to scattering by thin high clouds.

For a closer look, check out the large version (995x1247) or the enhanced contrast, large version (995x1247) which makes the thin background nebulosity easier to see.