The 38 hours would be over multiple days, probably weeks. Modern telescope mounts which are well polar aligned can track very well. There is also the use of a guide scope which fixates on a star or star field making slight adjustments to the mount as needed. Accuracy within a couple of pixels is possible. Digital cameras and computerization has revolutionized (amateur) astronomy such that a $500 smart scope will do better than professional rigs of 30 years ago.
hmmm... and here I always thought seeing the craters on the moon was impressive thru a home telescope!!