Erik, I've never heard of the oak tree nebula. It sounds like the flame nebula (NCG 2024) and it does look like a tree. In fact, now that I think of it, I think it resembles a tree more than a flame. If indeed this is the one you are referring to, I just might start calling it the oak tree also! The flame (or maybe the oak tree), is a relatively easy hit and it is very near Alnitak (zeta Orionis). You do need to put the bright stars (in this case Alnitak) out of the FOV, or you are right, they will overwhelm the very dim DSO's. Mat -----Original Message----- From: utah-astronomy-bounces@mailman.xmission.com [mailto:utah-astronomy-bounces@mailman.xmission.com] On Behalf Of erikhansen@thebluezone.net Sent: Wednesday, February 22, 2012 12:10 PM To: Utah Astronomy Subject: **SPAM** Score: 7; Re: [Utah-astronomy] Flat Earth Society
The horsehead has a number of challenges. 1st, the star near it will ruin your night vision, the times I have seen it it was found by someone else, dark adaption is the key. Sky conditions are also important, probably important not to have plaque (or was that plague) in your arteries as well.
My 6" f5 refractor frames the N American better than any scope I have looked trough. I have encountered people that mistake the "oak tree" very near by, for the horsehead. Erik ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- This message and any included attachments are from Siemens Healthcare and are intended only for the addressee(s). The information contained herein may include trade secrets or privileged or otherwise confidential information. Unauthorized review, forwarding, printing, copying, distributing, or using such information is strictly prohibited and may be unlawful. If you received this message in error, or have reason to believe you are not authorized to receive it, please promptly delete this message and notify the sender by e-mail with a copy to Central.SecurityOffice.Healthcare@siemens.com Thank you