This wide-field astrophotography was completed at the dark sky of Cherry Springs State Park (Potter County, PA) I became an avid deep sky observer in 1999. These images were created with a Canon dslr EOS 20d and 5D with 15mmf2.8, 24-70mmf2.8, 135mmf2, between the years of 2005-2008. Improving telescopic views, to see more structure in deep sky objects, meant accessing dark nights of exceptional transparency and seeing. This occurs randomly throughout the year's new moons. Below are the results of chasing fine nights of atmospheric clarity, free of moisture from the nearby great lakes. Captured, is the plane of the Milky Way, the galaxy our sun resides. The attempt was to expose the cameras sensor to the saturation limit. This varies depending on the amount of moisture and particulates through the altitude of the atmosphere. Most importantly the reflection of light pollution from distant horizons. All images were processed using simple RGB levels/curves, darkening the sky background. Here are a few of my favorites. Enjoy!
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