Just seen the Ring Nebula

[mike.brightmore]

Been trying different EPs in the Quantum 7.4s (25x100) binos. Using a combination of an Antares 15 mm Plossl and an Ascension SWA 15 mm I managed to rack these bins up to 40x100. Although the EPs weren't well matched it did give an idea what these bins could achieve at 40x magnification. There were clear bands on Jupiter and the open clusters in Auriga were quite breathtaking with over 50 stars clearly resolved in M38 and M36. Although Lyra was in my LP west, and I could only see two of the four stars in the parallelogram below Vega, I went looking for M57, the Ring Nebula. To my surprise there it was, small but perfectly formed. Something I never thought I would see in binoculars.

[Stu]

Funny, just posted something similar. Saw M57 in my 106mm at just over x50 despite quite bad light pollution, didn't think that was possible

[mike.brightmore]

Good views of M15 and M2 Globulars but can't see the Crab (M1)though, even though I saw it in the bins a few nights ago when the moon was bright.

[Doc]

Whats M33 like Mike?

[Stu]

Well I confess I have never managed to track the crab nebula down. Another one that I've always thought you need a really dark sky for

[Doc]

You don't need really dark skies for either M57 or M1. M57 you need to know where to look, once found it's quite easy. M1 is quite easy to locate just above Zeta Tau I can even see this one in my 4" refractor.

[Stu]

Just tried M1 now and no luck. Will have another go in a while. Spotted M57 no problem so should be able to see it I guess?

[mike.brightmore]

Hi Doc

clouded out and frozen up here now. Haven't tried M33 with the new bins yet. To be honest I always find it such a disappointment. Its an incredibly beautiful galaxy but reveals very little of itself. Will have a go next time though.

[Doc]

Bins normally bring the best out in this galaxy.

[Nexus 6]

Hi Mike,

well done finding M57. Your bins look superb!, (had a look on-line), I hope we get together soon so I may look for myself. I reackon the ring is one of the more rewarding dso's and always amazes me.

Alan

[mike.brightmore]

Hi Nexus

I did a preliminary review of these bins at http://stargazerslounge.com/equipment-reviews/119659-helios-quantum-7-4-big-binocular-review.html

Mike

[lunator]

MIke

congrats on getting M57 in the binos

I have found that M1 is very tricky in my LP London skies.

I have never seen M33 from my back garden