Is there a trick for orienting reference photos

[Barry W]

Hi everyone,

I'm really enjoying getting out with my scope. I came home from dinner last night and had about an hour to look around a clear still sky (8-9 PM). Most viewing centered on Orion and the Nebula, along with Plieades. I had my first opportunity to try out the new UHC filter. It really darkens the view and gives a noticeable contrast around the nebula. From what I've been told, I notice more when I get out to truely dark observing postions - is that right.

I don't have my books handy for reference right now, but I spent the last portion of my observing trying to pick up on the M clusters just below Sirius and at the feet of Gemini respectively. I definately had some clusters, but not sure if I had the actual "M"s or not.

I have the two volume Messier finder atlas and was told that lots of folks post small pictures next to the explanations to help orient them. Everything is upside down to me in the Dob. Is there a common trick out there to orient the reference photos or is it all trial and error. Thanks

Barry