Saw something new last night

It was still cloudy when I retired last night, however I awoke briefly and looked out of the window about 0230 when the sky was absolutely crystal clear apart from some patchy cloud. I saw Vega and Arcturus, and between then Hercules, and as I looked at Hercules I realised that with averted vision I could see M13!

I have never before seen M13 without optical aid! A splendid sky - a pity I'm having a busy day - work then a wedding, otherwise I'd have got the camera out!

Paul, I noticed the same thing last night, I was putting out the cat, and getting ready to turn in. I was tempted to pull out the scope and have a little look....but it was 11pm by then. I suppose in hind sight I shoud have .....won't be many nights like that over the next couple of months

I was also awestruck by the clarity of the sky on my way home after midnight. However, I was shattered and didn't bother with observing when I got home. I never knew M13 could be a naked eye object Paul.

Seanie.

I never knew M13 could be a naked eye object Paul.

No, nor me, but it's mag 5.8 and a quick google shows that it's an exceptionally clear night if it can be seen! It was a good proof of averted vision too - look at it, it's gone - look away slightly, there it is again.

Well chuffed

I was out observing last night and had a look at M13, one of my favourites, I have on occasion seen M13 with the naked eye but not last night.

but it was 11pm by then. I suppose in hind sight I shoud have

At this time of year (almost) and further on........................11PM is/will be the starting point of any nights observing.

I was out a couple of mornings last week at about3-4 AM. The sun was making an effort to rise. The best part of it is that the birds were also starting to rise so while i was observing i was entertained by the dawn chorus.

It was pretty cool.