How to Observe and Photograph the Pleiades (M45) ?

Oct 20, 2023 -  The Pleiades, also known as Messier 45 (M45), is a celestial marvel that has enthralled stargazers for centuries. This stunning open star cluster in the constellation Taurus is a perfect target for both observers and astrophotographers. In this article, we'll explore how to observe and photograph the Pleiades and provide you with a selection of the best telescopes and cameras to capture its beauty.

The Pleiades: A Celestial Gem

Before we dive into the specifics of observing and photographing the Pleiades, let's remind ourselves of why this star cluster is so captivating:

• Youthful Brilliance: The Pleiades consist of a group of young, hot, blue stars that collectively shine brilliantly. They create a striking, blue-white celestial tableau.

• Mythological Significance: Often referred to as the Seven Sisters, the Pleiades feature prominently in various cultural and mythological stories. This rich history adds an extra layer of fascination to the observation.

• Accessible for All: The Pleiades offer an ideal celestial target for both beginners and experienced astronomers. Its bright and compact nature makes it an inviting sight in the night sky.

Now, let's delve into the equipment and techniques required to observe and capture the beauty of the Pleiades.

Selecting the Right Equipment

Choosing the right equipment is vital for a rewarding Pleiades experience. Here are the top 5 telescopes and cameras suited for observing and photographing the Pleiades:

Best Telescopes for Observing the Pleiades:

• Celestron NexStar 8SE:

  • Type: Schmidt-Cassegrain

  • Aperture: 8 inches (203mm)

  • Focal Length: 2032mm

  • Mount: Computerized Alt-Azimuth

  • Key Features: Known for its large aperture, portability, and user-friendly computerized mount, the NexStar 8SE is excellent for observing the Pleiades. It offers clear and detailed views of the star cluster.

• Orion SkyQuest XT8 Classic Dobsonian Telescope:

  • Type: Newtonian Reflector (Dobsonian)

  • Aperture: 8 inches (203mm)

  • Focal Length: 1200mm

  • Mount: Dobsonian (manual)

  • Key Features: The XT8 Classic provides great value for its aperture size. While it lacks computerized tracking, its large aperture allows detailed views of the Pleiades.

• Sky-Watcher Evostar 72 APO Doublet Refractor:

  • Type: Apochromatic Refractor

  • Aperture: 72mm

  • Focal Length: 420mm

  • Mount: Equatorial or Alt-Azimuth

  • Key Features: Compact and portable, this refractor is perfect for wide-field views of the Pleiades. Its apochromatic design ensures high-quality, color-corrected images.

• Orion StarMax 90mm TableTop Maksutov-Cassegrain Telescope:

  • Type: Maksutov-Cassegrain

  • Aperture: 90mm

  • Focal Length: 1250mm

  • Mount: Tabletop Equatorial

  • Key Features: Compact and portable, the StarMax 90mm provides crisp and high-contrast views of the Pleiades.

• Meade Instruments Infinity 102mm AZ Refractor Telescope:

  • Type: Refractor

  • Aperture: 102mm

  • Focal Length: 600mm

  • Mount: Alt-Azimuth

  • Key Features: Affordable and user-friendly, the Infinity 102mm offers a decent aperture size and quality optics for Pleiades observation.

Best Cameras for Photographing the Pleiades:

• Canon EOS 6D Mark II:

  • Type: Full-frame DSLR

  • Key Features: This full-frame camera delivers excellent low-light performance, making it perfect for capturing the Pleiades with minimal noise.

• Nikon D5600:

  • Type: DSLR

  • Key Features: The D5600 offers a great balance of image quality and portability, making it an ideal choice for astrophotography.

• Sony Alpha a7 III:

  • Type: Mirrorless Full-frame

  • Key Features: With its full-frame sensor and impressive dynamic range, the a7 III is a top pick for capturing the Pleiades' beauty in high resolution.

• ZWO ASI294MC Pro:

  • Type: Astrophotography Camera

  • Key Features: Designed specifically for astrophotography, the ASI294MC Pro boasts low noise and excellent sensitivity to capture deep-sky objects like the Pleiades.

• Celestron NexImage Solar System Imager:

  • Type: Planetary and Lunar Camera

  • Key Features: While primarily designed for planetary imaging, it can be used for capturing close-up shots of the Pleiades with remarkable clarity.

Telescope Setup and Preparation

Once you have your telescope and camera ready, it's time to set up for your Pleiades observation and astrophotography session:

• Location: Choose a dark-sky site away from city lights for the best visibility of the Pleiades and surrounding nebulosity.

• Telescope Mount: Ensure your telescope is securely mounted on a stable tripod or mount.

• Eyepieces and Accessories: Select the appropriate eyepiece for your telescope to achieve the desired magnification for observation.

• Observing Chair: Use a comfortable, adjustable observing chair to prevent neck strain and enhance your comfort during extended sessions.

Observing and Photographing the Pleiades

Follow these steps to enjoy your Pleiades observation and photography session:

• Telescope Alignment: Use your telescope's finder scope or red dot finder to center the Pleiades cluster in your field of view.

• Low Magnification Observation: Begin with a low magnification eyepiece to take in the entire cluster. The Pleiades will appear as a group of bright blue stars surrounded by a hazy glow.

• Medium Magnification Observation: Switch to a medium magnification eyepiece to focus on the individual stars within the cluster. The Pleiades contains several prominent stars, each with its unique character.

• Observing Nebulosity: With the right eyepiece and under good conditions, you may discern the faint nebulosity surrounding the stars. This delicate mist of interstellar dust adds to the Pleiades' allure.

• Capture the Experience: If you're using a smartphone adapter, consider capturing a snapshot of your observation. For more advanced astrophotography, follow the steps below.

Astrophotography Tips

To capture stunning images of the Pleiades, consider the following tips:

• Manual Focus: Ensure precise focus by using your camera's live view mode and zooming in on a bright star within the Pleiades.

• Exposure Settings: Experiment with various exposure times. Begin with 20-30 seconds and adjust as needed. Keep the ISO low (around 800-3200) to minimize noise.

• Framing: Experiment with different compositions, including close-ups of individual stars and wider shots that encompass the entire cluster.

• Dark Sky Site: Choose a location with minimal light pollution to reveal the Pleiades' nebulosity and individual stars more clearly.

• Stacking and Post-Processing: Capture multiple images and stack them using dedicated software like DeepSkyStacker or Adobe Photoshop. After stacking, use post-processing software like Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop to enhance the color and contrast of your Pleiades images.

The Pleiades, with its dazzling beauty and rich history, offer an engaging target for telescope observation and astrophotography. By selecting the right telescope, preparing your equipment, and following the observing and astrophotography tips, you can embark on a celestial journey to capture the enchanting Pleiades in all their splendor. Whether you're a seasoned stargazer or a newcomer, this cosmic gem is a sight to behold. So, embrace the cosmos and delight in the beauty of M45, the Pleiades!