Quote:
Originally Posted by OzStarGazer
It is a useful site. I was just surprised that the moon is not brighter with big scopes that let in more light?
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I think those simulators are more about the size of the moon, not the brightness!
Getting back to the original question. Having used an 8", 12" and 20" dob, I can tell you that the main difference in the abilities of a 12" versus an 8" is the ability to detect the fainter objects. You will see more of the fainter details in the 12" and the ability to use more power helps in doing things like detecting the E and F stars n the Trapezium in M42 or the lobes of Eta Carina.
That said there is big change in weight and convenience going to the bigger scope which must be weighed into the equation.
Cheers
Malcolm