I never tried the PN from my northern latitude (47°N), even when it is possible to observe it between mountains or branches of a tree.

I had my first contact with the PN 2009 in Namibia where I collected observing data for a sketch during two nights.
12", 429x, NELM 7m0+
NGC6302.jpg

Afterwards I'm happy with the observations and sketch, even when the 17-inch and 24-inch shows little more detail.

Last contact was the May on the Gamsberg with the most powerful combination (aperture, transparency, seeing) in Namibia. The 28-inch shows within a few minutes much more details, particular y within the brighter center than the old 12-inch sketch. Very impressive view but without a sketch.