Re: [ATM] Top three 'wow' targets for sidewalk astronomy

["Jerry" <wa4guu@verizon.net>]

Mike

	It is not just the objects you choose. The power you choose for each
can make a big difference in the "wow" factor.

	The Pleiades looks great at about 20X. It looks better in my 80mm
refractor than my 12.5" reflector. I can't get the power low enough with the
big one.  The same with the Andromeda galaxy, too much power and all you see
is the core. 

	The globular clusters and the Ring Nebula get more "wow" factor with
high power. The back ground field looks darker and the hole in the in the
ring is larger and easier to see. The globulars will resolve into stars
rather than just a fuzz ball.

	Power is important with the extended objects such as the Orion
Nebula. Some people only look at them with low power, I suppose to fit more
in the view. They can look very good at high power also.

	So whatever objects you choose, use an eyepiece that frames the view
for the "wow" factor also.

	I second (third or fourth by now I guess) Vladimir's thoughts. Have
a story. Know some of the important details of the objects you choose. What
is it? How far is it? How big? How many stars are in that galaxy or star
cluster? How long ago did that star explode? Then figure out how to present
only some of that in a smooth patter that doesn't sound like a drill for a
final exam in Astronomy 101. Some of it you present with the view and some
of it you wait for the question. The questions are an indicator of true
interest. 

	When you are asked a question you don't know the answer. Tell them
"You can look it up!"  Wait a minute. Forget that. I got carried away.

	You know you will be asked that question... How far can you see with
that thing? You will be so proud of yourself if you actually have the answer
ready.

	Some people will be as interested in the telescope as they are the
view. Those are the potential ATM's.

Jerry




-----Original Message-----
From: atm-bounces@atmlist.net [mailto:atm-bounces@atmlist.net] On Behalf Of
Mike Shuken
Sent: Monday, February 12, 2007 1:53 AM
To: atm@atmlist.net
Subject: [ATM] Top three 'wow' targets for sidewalk astronomy

For sidewalk astronomy extra-solar system objects, what do you think 
are the best three places to point your telescope at?  Let's say a 8" 
reflector...

People are accustomed to Hubble pictures, so some are going to be 
disappointed no matter what, but what do you think will "grab the 
attention" of those whose attention can be grabbed?  A certain star 
cluster?  A certain spiral galaxy?

I'm looking for not so much what you like (although it may coincide) 
but what the average sidewalk walk-up might be "wowed" by...

M

PS - Oh yeah, I know you can always knock their socks off with 
Saturn's rings, but I'm looking for beyond our solar system...


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