Combining Multiple Data Sets

[stevek]

Hello all,
I have captured three separate data sets of M33 (i.e. LRGB+Flats+BIAS) on the same imaging rig.  Each of these sets can create an image in its own right.  However, what is the best mechanism in PI to combine these to create a deeper and better "Master" image please?  Just integrate each completed picture to create the master?

Thanks, Steve

EDIT: BTW here is a thread I asked a similar question on Stargazers Lounge:
http://stargazerslounge.com/topic/200725-using-different-datasets-to-create-an-image/#entry2121186

However these guys refer to Photoshop and I do not have that program.....

[pfile]

you can do that. or you can calibrate each image with it's proper set of master calibration frames, align them all to the best image (use SubFrameSelector) and then integrate the all the subs from each filter together.

you can even integrate the L, R, G and B images together to get a deeper L master.

rob

[stevek]

Thanks.  Thats my plan. Looks like I will have to get used to manual calibration 

[pfile]

you can still do the calibration with BPP… just throw everything in there.

rob

[stevek]

Thats what I am figured out and am now doing
Running the BPP that will create the calibrated lights.  Then register multiple groups then integrate them.  Simples

[stevek]

I have sorted it I think   Can some sanity check please?
I let the Batch Pre-processing script chew through each individual set of subs and spit out the calibrated lights.  If I do this for separate imaging runs I will get the equivalent number of sets of calibrated lights.
Using the registration tool I then register all of these calibrated lights with respect to one luminance from one set of lights.  That will then spit out all these calibrated and registered lights into a new directory I created.  I then integrate them all together to create a "master green", "master luminance" etc.
 
Works really well!  Of course, they are all from the same scope/camera combo.  I'd imagine if using different cameras then thats where programs like Registar struts it's stuff.
 
My post processing skills are very much a work in progress so I am embarrassed to post my [now] six hours of data on M33  :rolleyes:   At least, not just yet....

[pfile]

StarAlignment can also scale images from different cameras. this M31 was made with L/B from a 400mm setup and G/R from a 200mm setup:

so no need for RegiStar if you are using PI.



also you should be able to use BPP thru the registration step. it will align everything to a single chosen reference frame.

rob

[stevek]

That is great to know Rob! Many thanks, you may have saved me $150 !

Also correct about using BPP to align all the images - of course.  So the only manual bit is using the integration tool and select the aligned subs from each set of images.  Cool.