Spacescapes are one of the most difficult things I've painted. I paint a chunks of stars at a time to keep my sanity but also because I paint over previous layers with glazes to push them back. It also encourages using multiple colors. Glad I could reveal something in my process!
I've had typical masking tape problems despite the several types I've tried. It doesn't really pull up so much, but it does pool and results in some unevenness I have to sand in some places. Still worth the time saved :)