M51

[RMcCallum]

Hello all, my second cosmic sketch

Date: 13.03.13

Time: 19:45

Location: Boraston Uk

Scope: SW 130M

EP: 25mm BST

Magnification: x36

AFOV: 1.6

Conditions: Clear with patches of cloud

Seeing: Ok

Any ideas how I can also darken the FOV without losing what little detail I have?

[michael.h.f.wilkinson]

Nice sketch. One of my favourite object out there.

[RMcCallum]

Thank you, done a little tweaking and got this, M51 has a greater resemblance to that in the scope but the stars not so much.

[DonRemus]

Good stuff. Going to look for this object next clear night.

[RMcCallum]

I've been searching for this chappy since I got my scope, 9 months ago

[nephilim]

Good sketch mate, you were very lucky to get it in a 130 scope, I found it tricky with my 200p although last Monday when I saw it for the first time, through a 12" dob at a very dark site (30mm 82* ES ep) & you could make out slight structure in the arms.

Steve

[RMcCallum]

Whilst I was sketching I wasn't convinced it was M51 or a very small patch of cloud, it wasn't until I cross referenced the stars in my sketch was I more positive. I found it harder to make out than M97.