Small might be subject to interpretation. The horsehead is actually larger than I was thinking it was. In wide field images compare it's size to the flame nebula (or oak tree). The horse's "neck" is easier than the smaller forehead and nose and "top knot". Since the flame and horsehead are in the same observing neighborhood, that is a good way to set size expectations. Here is a good link to a wide field view of both: http://www.newforestobservatory.com/wordpress/wp-content/gallery/nebulae /WideField_Horsehead_Area_M25C_Greg_Noel_3.jpg Also according to observing legend Barbara Wilson, when trying for the horsehead it is important to select an eyepiece that gives an appropriate exit pupil. Filters respond better with certain exit pupils. See an article that Barbara wrote that discusses this idea here: http://home.ix.netcom.com/~bwilson2/barbarasweb/MEyepiece.htm If you are serious about seeing the horsehead, this article is highly recommended. Mat -----Original Message----- From: utah-astronomy-bounces@mailman.xmission.com [mailto:utah-astronomy-bounces@mailman.xmission.com] On Behalf Of Chuck Hards Sent: Thursday, February 23, 2012 8:21 AM To: Utah Astronomy Subject: Re: [Utah-astronomy] Nebulosity Another thing about the Horsehead- it is very small. I think some people might have been able to detect it but as Erik noted, they had bright stars in the field and used too low of a magnification. This is a good case for an old-style eyepiece without a humongous field of view, and fewer light-absorbing elements. _______________________________________________ Utah-Astronomy mailing list http://mailman.xmission.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/utah-astronomy Send messages to the list to Utah-Astronomy@mailman.xmission.com The Utah-Astronomy mailing list is not affiliated with any astronomy club. To unsubscribe go to: http://mailman.xmission.com/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/utah-astronomy Then enter your email address in the space provided and click on "Unsubscribe or edit options".