Image Processing

Multiple 'light' frames are combined (stacked) to boost signal over noise, with calibration frames (darks, flats, bias) removing sensor artefacts and vignetting.

Astronomical data is stretched to reveal faint detail hidden in the raw linear image, then colour-balanced. Good practice keeps stars and structures true to the data.

Enhancing contrast and colour is normal; inventing features is not. Reputable astrophotographers disclose their acquisition and processing, mirroring the provenance standard this platform applies to institutional imagery.