Delphinus: The Dolphin

Delphinus

This photo actually stretches from Vulpecula at the top left (not quite fully in the frame), across Sagitta, through Delphinus in the center, and down to Equuleus at the bottom. Also visible in the upper right is Altair and part of Aquila.

Resources:

Delphinus, Up Closer

Delphinus

Why the funny shape in the image? Well, the shot was taken at f/4 which is only 1/2-stop slower than having the lens wide open. Consequently, there was some horrible lens distortion. Picture Window Pro has a "Lens Distortion" effect that can be used to undo that, at least partially. But the result is you get an image outline that looks like a barrel. Next time I shot a f/5.6 or slower. It's probably best to go all the way to f/8 for a sharp image, but that will also mean an exposure of at least an hour.