Stardust Observatory Astrophotography by John Nassr

Click image to view the highest image resolution

M20 Trifid Nebula The dense star clouds of the Milky Way were irresistibly beautiful tonight as they stood out well defined against a clear dark night. Through a wide field refractor, many hazy areas of new born stars still mixed with the hydrogen broth from which they were born were a joy to behold. M20, the Trifid nebula near the center of our galaxy in Sagittarius is one such place. Here is a quick rendition of its colorful lobes.

Coordinates       :

Sagittarius18h 03' -23deg 02'

Date Imaged       :

June 18, 2006

Lens       :

Astrophysics 5� f8 Starfire

Camera       :

Atik 16HR, Astronomik filters

Exposure       :

LRGB = 36:25:25:28 minutes

Mount       :

Losmandy Titan

Location       :

Stardust Observatory, Baguio, Philippines