TheSkySearchers

A serendipitous image from last night. Bright moon, so just went out to get M103 for my Rokinon 135mm M project, working on clusters now. However, when processing the image with M103 centered, I noticed a slew of other clusters in the image. Just a short 5 min exposure thru the Rokinon at f2 in 30 sec subs with Zwo1600mc-cool camera. From right to left clusters as follows; NGC457, the Owl, or ET, delta Cass, M103, NGC 659, barely there, NGC 663, near left edge, NGC 644, above the later. Image posted 50% center crop, 2/3 full scale to fit forum requirements.
Looking at that string of cluster, it makes one wonder how Messier missed the rest?? Or did he just confuse one with another?? Or were those 2 inch singlet long focus fracts of the late 18th century that bad??

Clear skies,
Steve

Those little clusters are pretty cool. Nice image.

nice take , thx .

Nice catching Steve, clusters in a two inch anyscope would be a challenge visually.

A quick web search of refractors shows that Messier could have had an achromat, Wikipedia states he had a 4 inch, but type not mentioned. This is even more puzzling as a 4inch would show those clusters easy and M103 is the puniest of the bunch.

Still pondering,
Steve

Very nice shot.

Very nice image thanks for sharing!