Quote:
Originally Posted by Solanum
Superb clear night here, viewing down to about Mag 5. It's been a couple of weeks since I've had chance to get the scope out so it was a beautiful night for it (if cold). The Small and Large Magellenic clouds were high and bright, with 47 Tuc standing out above the SMC nicely to the naked eye.
Thought I'd have a look for M31, but it was too low to pick with the scope (houses in the way). Got my birdwatching binoculars out (8x40) and could easily see it even in the glow of streetlights. First time since coming to Australia 6 1/2 years ago.
I also decided to have a look for the Sculptor galaxy as it is high and I haven't seen it before. Found it very easy to locate, just scanned between the bottom star of Sculptor (alpha) and the bright star in Cetus (Diphda) and there it was (well after NGC288 which had me worried for a moment). Wow! I was surprised at the size and brightness. Seemed more impressive in my scope than I remember Sombrero being. I need my 25mm eyepiece to fit it all in. Was also clear in my binos.
Anyhow, just thought I'd share my excitement at all these galaxies tonight and show DJVege that you can see galaxies without much aperture.
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Had a squiz last night and I have to agree, NGC 253 is bright. also 'caught' NGC 7331, M31,32 and 33 as well as M110. A clear night and 21deg C, great conditions.
