[ngcles]

Hi Jason,

Sounds like you had a terrific first night with it. Yes, the 12 is somewhat more cumbersome than the 8 but you'll soon forget about that when it is really performing well.

In terms of pure light grasp, the 12" gives almost 2 1/2 time more light and when the seeing allows, better resolution to boot.

As you can see now, 10-12" is the threshold point where the Homunculus nebula within the Eta Carinae complex (NGC 3372) starts to become really interesting.

By the time you get to 18-20" it is one of the best objects in the sky -- if the seeing is right. When it is, at about x250 to x300, it will be a knockout in your new 'scope.

Enjoy!

Les D
Contributing Editor
AS&T