As I hunt down the Messier catalog objects this winter I read the NGC "Dreyer description" and I wonder about Mr. Dreyer's descriptions. He calls M79 (a cluster in Lepus) "pretty Large". The Andromeda Galaxy is 'pretty large' M79 is TINY. Does anyone know if Mr. Dreyer used a set of guide lines, for instance M79 is 8.7' according to my software, so are all objects from 5 to 10' in size 'prety large', while things from 11 to 20' 'large'? Or are his comments purely subjective? I know many of you out there have studied this kind of thing far more in depth than I have so I'd appreciate any free education you're willing to share.
NGC Descriptions?
Started by Falling-leif, 02/23/2004 12:48AM
Posted 02/23/2004 12:48AM
Opening Post
Posted 02/23/2004 06:24PM
#1
I believe Dreyer meant that M79 is "pretty large" for a globular cluster, an obviously subjective estimate.
I'd take apparent size estimates with a grain of salt, although they are most likely more consistent than estimated integrated magnitudes are.
Dave Mitsky
I'd take apparent size estimates with a grain of salt, although they are most likely more consistent than estimated integrated magnitudes are.
Dave Mitsky
Chance favors the prepared mind.
De gustibus non est disputandum.
Funding Member
