Helix Nebula (NGC 7293) / after stacking and combining in DeepSkyStacker software after adjusting the saturation tab (20% in this case) and also after additional post-processing in Photoshop CS3. Various filters and actions were then taken within Photoshop, including adjustments using the "curves," "color balance," "levels," "exposure" and "anti-noise" tabs. The final result is profoundly different than the originals out of the Canon camera; these results certainly a testament to the advances in photography during the digital age. Such adjustments were simply not possible even a decade ago!

To access further anti-noise enhancements and the process used, please click this text.

All of these actions are very subjective, raising the question of what is the true color and appearance of the astronomical object. My goal is to produce a relatively accurate and pleasing image of the subject. Hopefully this final image above represents that!