Most of your list of planned improvements is spot on Andy. Just be careful what emphasis you put on each one. For sure, stay away from trees is a given. Focusing on a close star just means you’re not moving the scope around as much which is a bonus. Re: the focus change... as your OTA cools the focus will change as it contracts. Make sure you understand that this affects your focus too, not just excessive OTA movement. I move down the list to “buy more gear”. There is no doubt that we all do this one, however, my advice would be to learn the difficulties of a lesser set up first as they will help you understand the process of capturing DSO’s better for the future. As for two hours on helix, my advice would be to be happy with what you have now. Concentrate on other targets and next year come back to helix when it’s closer to the meridian, and aim for as much intergration time as you can with far more experience under your belt
You’re definitely on the right track