Drawn to the Universe
AUGUST 2011 – NGC 6888

Sketch of the NGC 6888

Sketch of NGC 6888

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August 2011 Astronomy Now thumbnail
Subject: NGC 6888
Issue: August 2011 Astronomy Now
Basic Media: White charcoal on black stock
Featured Technique: Following Scott Mellish’s technique to apply white charcoal powder using paint brushes to create subtle nebulosity.
Suggested Sketching Materials:
  • Smooth, black cardstock such as Daler-Rowney Canford
  • White charcoal or pastel pencil
  • Fine point paint brush
  • Chamois cloth
  • Putty rubber
  • Sanding block
  • Clipboard and adjustable red observing light

    Optional Items:

  • Small sealable container
  • Spray fixative such as Winsor and Newton’s Artist Fixative
  • Stick of white, hard pastel
  • Blending stump
  • Colored pastel pencils (for star or nebula colours)
  • Fine point white paint marker
  • Graphite pencil and white paper
Sketch of the Eta Carina Nebula Complex by Alexander Massey

Sketch of the Eta Carina Nebula Complex by Alexander Massey

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The excellent sketch of the Eta Carina Nebula Complex above was created by Alexander Massey, of Sydney, Australia, using Scott Mellish’s technique. The stunning host of nebulae were observed with a 17.5-inch f/4.5 Dobsonian, 35 mm Masuyama eyepiece at 57X, and OIII filter. Alexander met with Scott in late 2010, where they discussed the techniques that allowed Alexander to prepare the detailed tutorial found at www.iceinspace.com.au/63-614-0-0-1-0.html.

A gallery of Scott’s incredible sketches can be found at Astronomy Sketch of the Day (search for Scott Mellish).