Atmospheric seeing is another contributor. The central star is seen against the subtle nebulosity filling the planetary's annulus. Typically, magnifications of 350X or greater and good seeing are required to make the detection. High magnification lowers the surface brightness of the background nebulosity enough to allow the ~15.2 magnitude central star to emerge. If the seeing is soft, the star bloats and blends into the background nebulostiy. But when the seeing steadies, the central star pops into view. On nights when the central star is visible, nearby IC 1296 makes a fine challenge for moderate to large aperture. Bill in Flag -----Original Message----- From: Stan Gorodenski <stan_gorodenski@xxxxxxxxxxxxx> To: AZ-Observing <az-observing@xxxxxxxxxxxxx> Sent: Thu, 7 Jun 2007 12:15 am Subject: [AZ-Observing] M57 Well, I am certain I have finally seen the central star in M57 with the 6", although I am sure seeing the central star is no big feat for all ou experienced observers. I never saw it with the 12.5" Dall-Kirkham. t pretty regularly pops in and out using averted vision. Sometimes it eems very defined. I am wondering if this may be when it hits a more ensitive rod in my eye, or because it is on the borderline of isibility stochastically a times a rod gets hit with a few more photons. tan -- ee message header for info on list archives or unsubscribing, and please end personal replies to the author, not the list. ________________________________________________________________________ AOL now offers free email to everyone. Find out more about what's free from AOL at AOL.com. -- See message header for info on list archives or unsubscribing, and please send personal replies to the author, not the list.