A Milky Way photo that is twelve years in the making

It’s easy to get started with projects. This is the last part many of us have problems with. We can hardly imagine completing a project after more than a decade, but seeing the breathtaking results of [J-P Metsavainio]The composite image of our galaxy system of our gigapixel might just make us reconsider. The photo, which we strongly recommend that you take a look at in full glory, has been running since 2009, contains 1250 total exposure time and extends over 125 degrees of air. It’s simply spectacular.

It was, of course, not a sustained attempt to make this one image during the twelve years. Part of the reason for the long duration is that many frames of the mosaic were shot, processed and released as their own pieces; each of the many astronomical features on its own impressive. But over the years, he has filled the gaps in between and was able to reveal a more and more complete picture of our galactic home.

A project that for so long, somewhat predictably, finally survives the technology used to create it. Until 2014, [Metsavainio]The setup included a Meade 12-inch telescope and some modified Canon optics. Since then, he has been using a dedicated equatorial container, an astro camera and a Tokina lens (re-adapted) with an 11-inch Celestron for longer focal lengths. He processes the frames in Photoshop, takes into account small exposures and color differences, and adjusts the images based on background stars. However, he had enough time to complete his process, so the necessary adjustment is relatively minor.

Amateur astronomy is an amazing hobby, and the barrier to entry is lower than it seems. You can start with a budget with the ubiquitous Raspberry Pi or with the slightly less practical Game Boy Camera. And if you just want to see the cosmos, there are also options to build your own telescope.

[via PetaPixel]