G'day from a Tasmanian Newbie

[BSirius]

G'day all,

Been interested in astronomy since I was young, but had a few false starts. McNaught has sparked my interest again, as well as needing to pursue something that is interesting and relaxing (depending on how I approach it...)

I've seen some great sites on astrophotography which I'm keen on, but intend to take the collective advice of forums like this and learn the sky first, then gradually work up to it.

Just ordered a pair of AOE 12x60 binos, again thanks to many reviews on this forum, and we'll see how it goes from there.

Haven't got access to a club in the north-west of Tas, but this online community seems full of inspiration and good advice.

Cheers,

Ben

[iceman]

Hi Ben!

:welcome: to IIS!

Sounds like you're off to a great start! Remember to keep asking questions!

[DobDobDob]

Hi mate, welcome. I'm new too, only been here a week and a half and it seems like It been since 1967, it's just so much fun being in this forum. I'm sure you will like it enormously as you go along. The smilies are free :) :D :P ;) now that's got to impress you :welcome:

[wavelandscott]

Welcome to the forum and hobby...

I think there are a few members from the "Apple Isle"...not sure about the distances involved but they seem like a helpful lot down there...I'm sure they'd welcome you to view with them when (if) they get together.

[davidpretorius]

Hi Mate. i am new here too

Just jokes. There is a few guys in Devonport, 4 or 5 of us in Launceston and a heap down south.

We try and get together once a month. So if visiting lonnie, please look us up.

Three of us are leading the faithful in some adult ed courses in march.

There is also the possibility of a few of us going to ISAAC 2008 which is a star camp on the big island.

[acropolite]

Welcome to IIS Ben, there are a few of us here, mostly around Lonny. The members map (http://www.iceinspace.com.au/plot/) will show where most users are (Mojo's greatest unfinished artwork :P) Disregard the poor souls lost at sea....

[BSirius]

Thanks everyone for the welcome. Nice to know there are a few 40degS'ers.

Cheers,

Ben

[Ric]

Hi Ben, welcome to IIS.
Your into a great hobby and this is a great place to get help and advice.

Cheers

[astro_nutt]

And another Hi and Welcome to IIS Ben....

[tasview]

Welcome Ben,you will find these guys here very helpful and friendly!Enjoy.:welcome:

[norm]

G'day and welcome to the forum!:D

[Dobman]

Hi Ben, Welcome to IIS, as already mentioned, there's a few of us in the N, NW, 3 or 4 of us often get together around new moon at Bridgenorth. We're hoping to meet up next weekend 16th or 17th Feb for a viewing nite. If you are interested we can get contact details and directions
:welcome:

[BSirius]

Thanks Simon, might be heading in Walls of Jerusalem next weekend, but would like to sometime...

Cheers,

Ben

[Photon]

Hi Ben,
Welcome to the group. Always nice to see another Tasmanian with an interest in Astronomy! Do you live in Burnie or out a bit? There is a small group Devonport based who often meet at a dark spot out near Latrobe. Lets me know when you get the Bino's and get organised if you would like some contacts.
Kind Regards Ian Gillespie

[BSirius]

Thanks Ian, I'm in Burnie, but overlook a playground so the light pollution isn't too bad (I don't think). Just got the binos and am trying to knock together a tripod mount...

Cheers,

Ben

[Photon]

Hi Ben, The 12x60's see first light tonight, so the saying goes! Scuddy cloud here tonight but a few stars visible, sure hope it's better you end. Let us know how your viewing goes.
Kind Regards IanG