130mm Reflector

[zoner]

Hello,<br /><br />I recently bought a vixen 130 mm reflector (R130SF) and I would like to view images of what I should expect to see through it or at least share observations with amateurs using a similar telescope. <br /><br />Thank you,<br />

 

[lukman]

Welcome to SDC <img src="/images/icons/laugh.gif" /> <div class="Discussion_UserSignature"> </div>

 

[heyscottie]

I've got a 114 mm reflector, so I can give you some idea of what you should be able to see:<br /><br />1) Rings of Saturn, with Cassini division<br />2) 2-3 moons of Saturn<br />3) Galilean moons of Jupiter<br />4) Cloud bands on Jupiter<br />5) Ice caps and major features on Mars<br />6) Phases of Venus & Mercury<br />7) Sunspots (with a solar filter)<br />8) Excellent views of lunar craters, mountains, etc<br />9) All Messier objects, but generally without definition. They'll mostly look like fuzzy white blobs of different shapes. There are exceptions, of course, such as open clusters, which will have plenty of definition.<br />10) Double stars<br />11) Uranus resolves to a disc, but just barely<br /><br />Scott

 

[zoner]

Thanks Scott! <br /><br />it seems we are the only ones using small reflectors

 

[heyscottie]

There are a few others out here, too... Maybe they just don't want to admit it?<br /><br />I know I've been looking to upgrade for a few years now, and just haven't quite convinced myself to let go of the cash...