Longer exposure times gather more light but also increase image noise, which can degrade photo quality. Noise comes from thermal signals as your sensor heats up, read noise during data capture, and amplified light pollution.
To manage noise, consider these strategies:
- Take multiple shorter exposures and stack them to average out noise.
- Keep your camera cool or allow breaks between shots.
- Use moderate ISO settings to balance sensitivity and noise.
- Apply calibration frames like darks and flats to reduce sensor artifacts.
Using software like DeepSkyStacker can help combine your images for a cleaner final result without pushing exposure times too long.
