June 2012
So let us have a look at this month's suggestions with a mix of three globulars, one open cluster and a nebula and see if someone can beat him to the punch!
NGC 5139 / Omega Centauri- this globular is the largest and brightest of all the globulars and is a favourite but can be challenge to image as the centre is easy to burn out (overexpose) when trying to fit the periphery stars into the picture. It contains perhaps 10 million stars, is 10 times more massive that other globs and in all, it's estimated to have a total mass of 5 million suns. It should hit you in the eye at an altitude of 73° when you look SW (214°)
NGC 6121 / M4- another globular; not as intense as Omega Cent. Worth the effort so look East (81°) and raise your eyes 62° above the horizon.
NGC 6254 / M10- the last globular for this month. At an altitude of 42° it's probably a bit low in the sky but if you want to have a go at it, look NE (58°)
NGC 3372 / eta Carinae- just to change pace, here is a bright nebula. Easy to image though it's just as easy to over expose. It's a good object for wide field or close-in imaging. Located a bit low at 47°, looking SW (217°).
NGC 4755 / Jewel Box- a beautiful open cluster - try it! At 60° elevation SSW (202°) it's high in the sky for a good look.