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I know there are a lot of things to look at but really, can you top M57? I like OCs/GCs/PNs but I fear I will have seen the best I can with a 4" scope once I am done the Messier's.

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The Messier list is moderately complete w.r.t. bright galaxies, and startlingly complete w.r.t. bright globular clusters. But I'd say that it includes fewer than half of the spectacular open clusters and planetary nebulae, so you're in luck.

Messier tended to overlook planetary nebulae in particular because of their small size. Tons of them are visible with a 4-inch scope.

The obvious reference work for you is Sue French's Celestial Sampler. And no, I'm not just saying that because my company publishes the book and/or because I'm a friend of hers. But Sue and Steve O'Meara are undoubtedly the best and best-known 4-inch-refractor observers around.

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Tony Flanders

eyeglasses
6x15 and 8x32 monoculars
8x25, 7x35, 10x30 IS, 10x50, and 15x70 binoculars
70mm and 100mm achromatic refractors
4.5", 7", and 12.5" Dobs

Edited by Tony Flanders (07/29/08 01:43 PM)

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