6 replies to this topic

[SBacon]

On Friday night we finally had some clear skies so I shot several clusters because I HAD to shoot something and the moon was at 98%.  Here's M46.  This is with the 8" LX90 and Canon T5.  It's a stack of 14 frames, 30 seconds each at ISO 1600.  I thought there was a smudge on the scope or camera sensor but when I zoomed in on the image it looked like a miniature Ring Nebula.  After checking Stellarium, sure enough there is a planetary nebula, NGC 2438, in the line of sight with this cluster.

 

There is another nebula to the left of NGC 2438 that is described as the bipolar Calabash Nebula.  Don't know if the 8" will pick that one up or not but we'll certainly give it a try when the moon goes away!

 

Steve

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[MistrBadgr]

Hi Steve,

 

That is cool stuff!  I understand the HAVE to get out  business!

I have read about one of the Messier open clusters having a planetary nebula in it or at least looking like it is in the cluster.  I have not actually seen the PN through an eyepiece from my back yard.  I will have to look harder sometime.  Your image is inspiring me!

 

Bill

[RickScofield]

Steve,
I agree with Bill, VERY COOL !

Thank you,
Rick

[SBacon]

Thanks guys. This was a fun one to find out something new. 

 

BTW . . . Bought a 10x16 storage building today. Plans are to convert it to a roll off roof observatory. Should keep me busy for the next couple of months if the rain will cooperate.

 

Steve

[MistrBadgr]

That should work out great, Steve.  Rain can be an issue, but I bet you get it together fairly fast.

 

Bill

[Kruegon]

Thanks guys. This was a fun one to find out something new. 
 
BTW . . . Bought a 10x16 storage building today. Plans are to convert it to a roll off roof observatory. Should keep me busy for the next couple of months if the rain will cooperate.
 
Steve

I have wanted such for a while now. Would do me no good where I live. Between the combinations of light pollution and trees, my viewing area and directions are severely limited.

I wonder if a 130mm newt could pick up that nnebula you photographed...

[E Sully]

Nice smudge Steve.  Accidental imaging can be fun.

  Good luck with the observatory shed.  I wish I had one.  Right now Shingles is keeping me from even thinking about carrying the scope out for set up.