Each master image will have a different inherent brightness level due to the differences in light transmission in the filter. Before combining each image into a single color image, the brightness levels must be in balance. The easiest way to do this is with the PixInsight Linear Fit Process.
Brightness Levels
Before we can run Linear Fit, we need to determine which image will be our reference, which should be the brightest.
By using the Statistics process for each of our images, we can quickly identify which image is the brightest.
Most likely, the Luminance, Red or Hydrogen-Alpha image will be the brightest.
Linear Fit
The linear fit process is extremely easy and fast. Simply select the reference image (brightest), and apply it to the other images by dragging the triangle onto them.
Once done, we can see how the Median value within the Statistics process are similar across the images.
What’s Next
With the brightness levels across all images equalized, the next step is to integrate our channels into a single color image with Pixel Math or Channel Combination. The approach you take will be based on whether you are doing lunar or deep sky imaging