My first look at M42

[blackparticle]

The clouds were threatening rain so I packed everything away only to be presented with the clearest skies I've ever had. The stars were barely twinkling the seeing was that good.

So I grabbed the 130P and searched around for a spot where I could get a look at Orion.

With a Celestron Omni 40mm the nebula was visible but nothing spectacular. Increasing the magnification and switching to the SW 9mm that came with the Mak150 really enhanced the contrast and gave me the best view of a faint fuzzy I've ever seen with my own scopes.

The nebula itself, while devoid of any colour, showed good clarity and wispiness. The 4 small stars at the center were easily distinguishable as well as the outline of the dark dust cloud at the core.

I spent a good hour just staring at it, tracing the outlines and taking it all in. I can only imagine what this would look like in a big scope and it must be the first time I've been glad that the threat of rain made me pack everything else away.

[Nexus 6]

congrats on seeing the Great Orion Nebula, guessed you enjoyed the show having spent an hour observing it which is always a good way to pick out some more detail on many nice sights up there

[swamp thing]

Aaah! The mighty nebula in Orion.

Congratulations on seeing one of the wonders of the winter sky.

Regards Steve

[michael.h.f.wilkinson]

M42 is awesome. I have not seen it this side of summer, but look forward to seeing it rise above the trees behind our house later this year. If you have a UHC filter, try it on M42. It can enhance contrast nicely and show more detail.

[robbie c]

Congrats cant wait to get the chance to get my first view of M42 hopefully I wont have to wait to long

[saturn4me]

Congratulations.I cant wait for the clear winter skies so i can take a peek!

[michael.h.f.wilkinson]

BTW, if you have seen M42, you can also chalk off M43: it is the little round bit separated by a dust lane from the bulk of M42. Two Messiers for the price of one.