Best way to see Andromeda galaxy

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the best methods and equipment for observing the Andromeda Galaxy using a Dobsonian reflector telescope, specifically the Orion SkyQuest XT8 PLUS. Participants also explore alternative celestial objects to observe and share resources for beginners in astronomy.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the best eyepiece for viewing the Andromeda Galaxy, listing three options: a 28mm DeepView eyepiece, a 10mm Sirius Plossl eyepiece, and a 2x Barlow.
  • Another participant suggests that for viewing galaxies, the least magnification and widest field of view are preferable, recommending the 10mm eyepiece.
  • A different participant emphasizes that M31 (Andromeda) is large and does not require high magnification, suggesting that light collection and dark skies are more important.
  • Another participant corrects the previous statement about eyepiece selection, stating that the 28mm eyepiece would provide the least magnification, calculating the magnifications for both the 28mm and 10mm eyepieces.
  • A participant humorously remarks on the weather in New England, suggesting that the skies are often cloudy, while recommending the Orion Nebula as a good target for viewing.
  • Another participant shares resources, mentioning a field guide and a magazine that they found helpful for beginners in astronomy.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the importance of using lower magnification for viewing the Andromeda Galaxy, but there is some disagreement regarding which eyepiece is best suited for this purpose. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the optimal equipment choice.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the visibility of celestial objects may depend on local conditions, such as light pollution and weather. The discussion does not resolve these contextual factors.

Who May Find This Useful

Beginners in astronomy, telescope users, and individuals interested in celestial observation in the New England area may find this discussion helpful.

GiantSheeps
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I just recently got a dobsonian reflector telescope, (Orion SkyQuest XT8 PLUS Dobsonian Reflector Telescope) and I was wondering what the best way to see the andromeda galaxy would be using the telescope? Of these, which would be the best eye piece for that sort of thing?:

Orion 2" 28mm DeepView telescope eyepiece
Orion 1.25" 10mm Sirius Plossl telescope eyepiece
Orion 1.25" Shorty 2x Barlow

Also, if not the andromeda galaxy, what else would be able to see that is especially neat to look at with this kind of telescope? I live in the new england area, if that helps. Any tips would be greatly appreciated, I'm just starting out so I need all the help I can get. Thanks!
 
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For a galaxy, you want the least magnification/widest field of view you can get. So that would be the 10mm eyepiece.

You'll definitely also want to look at the planets, the moon and some of the brighter nebulae (Orion Nebula to start).
 
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To build on Russ' answer, M31 is big. Really big. Bigger than the moon. You don't need magnification - it will only mean you'll see less of it. You need light collection, and you'll want to go where the sky is darkest.
 
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Russ is right about using the least magnification. But that would be with the 28mm eyepiece. Magnification is scope focal length divided by eyepiece focal length.
In your case 1200/28 at 43 vs 1200/10 at 120.
 
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GiantSheeps said:
Also, if not the andromeda galaxy, what else would be able to see that is especially neat to look at with this kind of telescope? I live in the new england area, if that helps. Any tips would be greatly appreciated, I'm just starting out so I need all the help I can get. Thanks!

The New England area? I heard that all you can see there is clouds. Come to Arizona for a real sky. :-p
If you go out after about 9-10 pm, Orion should be coming up in the East. The Orion Nebula is a beauty to look at.
 
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There exists in the Petersen's series "A Field Guide to the Stars and Planets"
that i found very helpful getting started with my first telescope, a short little 4.5 inch reflector.

Also Sky and Telescope magazine i found fascinating. Check out their weekly sky guide at
http://www.skyandtelescope.com/observing/sky-at-a-glance/
 

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