Eagle Nebula, Pillars of Creation

[Brian W]

Hi all, first a little background... we own an 8" Lb that has a good set of mirrors according to my version of the star test. We also have a dark back yard and occasionally superb skies. As a fair example last night I bagged, albeit with averted vision, NGC 6337 at @40x, a nice little PN.

I am wondering if the pillars of Creation are doable in our 8. There are times when my very good imagination kicks in and right at the limit of A.V. I think I am almost seeing an oblong dark area that just might actually be there.

Please note that I am not saying that I have seen them I am just wondering if on a really really good night I just might catch them or should I tire my eyes out on something simple and easy like the Witches Head nebula sans filters.

Brian

[mental4astro]

Hi Brian,

I think it is do-able. You may need to use some magnification, along with a filter, such as an OIII.

I saw the Eagle for the first time last Saturday night, though I was using my 17.5". It will be a really test of conditions to see the Eagle though. My view started brilliantly. So-much-so that I was able to see some shape in the pillars by way of the highlighted leading edges of the pillars. However, conditions went pear-shaped, making the whole feature purely an averted vision one, and without the 3D effect.

Have a look at the sketch I posted in the DSO sketching thread (http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/showpost.php?p=740172&postcount=73). It will help give you a guide as to where the Eagle lies within the nebula, the surrounding stars & its relative size.

I'm keen to have a go too next new moon with my 8" dob. Will be good to compare notes.

Clear skies to you Brian,

Alex.

[Brian W]

[QUOTE=mental4astro;741411]Hi Brian,

I think it is do-able. You may need to use some magnification, along with a filter, such as an OIII.

I saw the Eagle for the first time last Saturday night, though I was using my 17.5". It will be a really test of conditions to see the Eagle though. My view started brilliantly. So-much-so that I was able to see some shape in the pillars by way of the highlighted leading edges of the pillars. However, conditions went pear-shaped, making the whole feature purely an averted vision one, and without the 3D effect.

I have got good 200 and 600 mag eps if the weather is good. Certainly in the 8 or (obviously ) the 4.5 I will not get the detail your sketch shows but right where you have placed the P. of C. in your sketch is where I almost see an oblong.

One thing about M-16 is that it is seriously dependent upon conditions. It has never looked the same twice in a row for me.

Once the moon is gone we shall try to compare notes (clouds cooperating).
Brian

[mental4astro]

You may also like to check out the nearby M17, the Swan nebula. It is also surprisingly detailed with a filter & magnification over 150X. The nebulosity also extends way beyond the brighter "swan" shape. It is a very good target for both low & high magnification, and no rushing.

[Brian W]

The Swan is one of my favourites. I don't know if M-42 is in your skies but if it is it is well worth going around the rest of the area and looking in on the many lesser(?) sights.
B