Messier objects with binoculars ?

[Martin Meredith]

Coming back to this topic after reading Stoyan's Atlas of the Messier Objects (excellent book) picked up at Astrofest last week, it appears that all Messier objects apart from M91 are visible in 10x50s, at least for an experienced observer under good skies. The other difficult objects for bins of this size are said to be M76, M98 and M108. So there's a challenge!

BTW Stoyan et al. has to be one of the most comprehensive texts for the visual observer of Messier objects (I say that also having O'Meara's book, which I like a lot), and has plenty to say to the binocular observer. The intro on Messier and his colleagues is fascinating, as is the translation of the complete catalogue. All of the objects are treated at length with historical, astrophysical and observing information as well as multiple drawing and photographs from the likes of Robert Gendler. 

Martin

[WaveSoarer]

Great post Martin. I've stumbled upon a lot of intersting new objects when I've been on the hunt for something else. It's these unexpected discoveries that add to the enjoyment.