In this tutorial, Telescope Live tutor Bernard Miller presents a powerful star reduction technique using a dedicated PixInsight script that offers superior results to Photoshop’s minimum filter. Designed to reduce star size while preserving structure and colour, the workflow combines StarXTerminator with a custom Star Reduction script. Key steps include:

Preparing the Data:

- Remove stars from a cloned image using StarXTerminator, preserving the original as a reference.

- Install the custom Star Reduction script via PixInsight’s Manage Repositories menu.

Running the Script:

- Choose from four reduction methods—Transfer, Halo, Star, and Lightness—with Transfer offering the best balance between star color, size, and spikes.

- Fine-tune reduction strength using the stretch factor, and apply optional small star protection and reverse stretch for better color retention.

Post-Processing Enhancements:

- Correct residual magenta star colour using the built-in PixInsight utility.

- Finish with optional noise reduction and final edits in Photoshop for optimal presentation.

This tutorial provides an effective, flexible approach to star reduction that enhances nebular detail while retaining star characteristics.