Aligned/combined all files of each color set in AutostarSuite Image Processing software
Imported data sets to Photoshop via FITS liberator.
Adjusted levels and Curves a bit.
Applied a mild version of Noel Carboni's "Space Noise Reduction" action.
Description: M48 NGC7023 AKA "The Iris Nebula"
The Iris Nebula (NGC 7023) is located in the constellation Cepheus and is a beautiful example of a reflection nebula. The young, central star (designated HD 200775) is only about 5,000 years old, and its blue light is preferentially scattered by the surrounding dust (resulting in the characteristic blue color of the reflection nebula). However, on higher magnification, areas of red emission can be observed flanking the central star, a result of ultraviolet radiation that excites Ha emission within this region. Finally, the entire region is filled with a dense, chocolate-brown dust that obscures light from stars behind the nebula. Therefore, this region is comprised of all three main nebulosities: reflection, emission, and dark, much like the Cocoon Nebula.
