What is it that i am going to see??

[Basman217 (Sebastian)]

Hi all thanks so much for the info i have received so far.

I have a long list of things i am going to try to find.

But just a question, what am i actually going to see?
Will it look just like another star or will it be obvious it is a galaxy, nebula,...etc .

For those who don't know i have a 8" DOB

And another quick question, Should i use an eyepiece with low or high power?

Any Feedback is always appreciated

Thanks

[erick (Eric)]

Sebastian

If you are well collimated, then galaxies and nebula (apart from maybe the smallest planetary nebula) will be distinctly different, particularly if you get the object into the centre of your field of view. But when they say "faint fuzzies", they do mean it. It needs time to develop your "eye" to see detail in various galaxies.

Of course, start with the larger and more obvious galaxies and planetaries. And the larger emission nebula. A good bright comet is also a lovely sight.

What is your observing wish list? We'd be happy to comment and offer suggestions.

Eric

[barx1963 (Malcolm)]

As to the eyepiece query, I'll give the lawyers answer, it all depends!
Generally you will use your low power ones the most. Ther are hundreds of objects that look fantastic at low power (eg less than 100x).
If I assume your 8" dob as an f6, it has a focal length of 1200mm. If you have the standard eyepieces you will have a 25mm giving 48x and a 10mm giving 120x. At 48x many objects like M42, M43, Omega Centauri, 47 Tuc, Eta Carina neb will look great. The higher power will often not help.
THe high power EP can be used if you want to get the Homonculus around Eta Car, get closer view of Saturn. Jupiter is just about done for this year. I got almost all the Messiers using an 8" dob and 25mm EP.

[Brian W (Brian)]

I use an 8" Lb and you will see quite a lot... once you develop your skills. NGC 206 which is a very large cluster in M-31 is possible. 6 stars in the Trapezium and some awesome structural detail in M-42 as well. The Gem Nebula is breath taking as is all of the area around E.C..

But it will require a dark site and training for your eye to see this stuff and for your mind to interpret it.

Have fun.
Brian