A Laois based astro-photographer is undertaking a challenge to photograph all 110 Messier astronomical objects in space.

The Messier objects include galaxies, nebulas, clusters and supernova remnants. 

We spoke to Portlaoise photographer Don Kelly on his astrophotography hobby.

"I live just off the Dublin Road in Portlaoise and I moved here from Waterford in 2020, just before the start of the pandemic," Mr Kelly told the Leinster Express / Laois Live.

Pictured: a waning gibbous moon photographed last week by Don Kelly

"I’ve always had a keen interest in science and technology from a young age and was particularly drawn to astronomy, the night sky and the wonder of the universe at large," he said.

"I was an avid photographer as an adult (mainly wildlife and landscapes) but always marvelled at images of deep space objects such as galaxies and nebulae. I believed that these were only possible using complex high end equipment costing thousands of euros," Mr Kelly explained.

"With the advent of affordable and user-friendly smart telescopes I was fortunate enough to combine my two favourite interests into my current passion, astrophotography using a Seestar S50 telescope. What once felt like a dream became something I could achieve in my own backyard."

Pictured: The Orion nebula, snapped by Don Kelly

The Messier Catalogue is one of the most famous lists of deep sky astronomical objects and contains 110 objects such as galaxies, star clusters and nebulae. It was compiled by the French astronomer Charles Messier in the 18th century.

"My goal is to capture all 110 objects and compile them into a large printable collage," Mr Kelly shared.

"I’ve been enjoying astrophotography for just over 1 year now, so I have captured some of them already but the bulk of the challenge still remains before me."

Pictured: a clear photograph of the sun from Don Kelly

The Portlaoise photographer plans to capture all of the objects within the next two years.

"There is an event called the Messier Marathon whereby observers attempt to view all 110 objects within a single night! I want to enjoy the process though and savour the journey," he explained.

"For the most part I can do this from my back garden. I have already travelled to capture some of the more challenging objects such as the star clusters M6 and M7 which only reach a few degrees above the horizon line.

"For these I needed a clear southern view, so I travelled to Dunbur Head at the coast of Wicklow and was delighted to have captured them," Mr Kelly said.

Pictured: Pinwheel Galaxy. Photo credit: Don Kelly

The photographer highlighted that the Rock of Dunamase offers 'an excellent vantage point' for objects closer to the horizon.

Outside of his hobby, Mr Kelly was known locally for running his pet minding business.

"I ran my own business here in Portlaoise for several years called PetMinder. I would visit pet owner’s homes ensuring that the welfare needs of their pets were met while they were away. I streamed live video footage of pets to pet owners while wearing a body camera, a first of its kind in Ireland," he shared.

"The role included dog walking, welfare visits to cats and one time I minded a bearded dragon lizard while streaming live video to the owners in Australia!".

We asked Mr Kelly if he had any advice for people who would like to pick up astrophotography.

"There has never been a better time to delve into the rewarding hobby that is astrophotography. Smart telescopes are affordable now and are extremely user friendly which makes them an ideal choice for beginners and pros alike," Mr Kelly encouraged.

Pictured: Portlaoise man Don Kelly

"Both young and old can now capture the beauty of the night sky objects with these telescopes and a smartphone. For me personally, a major benefit of this hobby is the ability to connect to online communities such as Facebook groups which offer a platform to showcase your results and receive excellent help and feedback from group members," he said.

"My advice would be to dive right in and enjoy the journey! Wishing “clear skies” to all newcomers to this fantastic hobby!" Mr Kelly finished.

To view more spectacular space snaps from Mr Kelly, and to follow along on his Messier journey, you can find him on Instagram at  @donkellyastrophotography.

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