messier hunt

[vorminar]

hey all over this next year or so i am going to try to hunt down all the messier objects so was just wondering could i do this with a 6" scope?

[John]

All the messier objects can be seen with a 6" scope I believe. Some will be a real challenge and you will need to seek out dark skies and clear horizons but it should be possible.

[Tiddles]

6" scope and dark skies. I'm not sure all are visible in the Northern hemisphere. You may need to plan to travel to tick off a few.

[vorminar]

meh travelling is out of the question but it should still be fun to see what ones i can find

[swamp thing]

6" scope and dark skies. I'm not sure all are visible in the Northern hemisphere. You may need to plan to travel to tick off a few.

They are all observable from the northern hemisphere although some are quite low in the sky.

Obviously as Messier was observing from France all of the objects can be seen from French latitudes. If you are observing from much further north you may struggle to find a few.

Good hunting and clear skies

Regards Steve

[JamesF]

And consider the quality of the instruments available to Messier. This is an interesting read:

Messier's telescopes

Of course, in his favour, there would have been considerably less light pollution.

James

[Tinker1947]

Telrad Maps show the Messiier Objects, very handy without a Telrad.

Sky Maps

[Capricorn]

No idea where you are but check out the local astro clubs.

In March there are a few in the US that hold Messier Marathons, seems that you can tick off a large proportion of them in March for whatever reason.

Agreed you are probably in the UK but I noticed that the Letchworth Club is holding a Messier Marathon on March 16 and 23/24. A club in your area may be doing the same.

[Rapallokid]

Tinker 1947,

many thanks great link.

RK