That reminds me, I need to learn Blender.
I remember from my telescoping days that one of my favourites objects was Albireo (400 ly away).
Usually every object in the viewfinder is some shade of white but for Albireo the contrast in colours between the two stars was always interesting.
Yes blender is cool...don't let the learning curve scare you off!
I am used to POV Ray so I am hoping Blender will be at least not harder than that.