Good evening from Melbourne.

[Piers]

Hi all,

Thought I'd introduce myself. Been a fan of astronomy since I was a small boy and have finally bought my first scope. It only took twenty years! Get it next week but I thought I'd get a head start and see what people are using on this forum.

Can anyone recommended any good places in Melbourne/Victoria to meet like-minded astronomers?

Happy gazing,

Piers

[Sarge]

:welcome:
Piers
Welcome. This is a great place to meet like minded persons. Also consider Astronomical Society of Vic, they have several meetings each month and NAG - New Astronomers Group, which is a really great way the kick of your venture. Clear skies

http://www.asv.org.au/

Rod

[stephenb]

:stargaze: Welcome Piers,

Yes definately check out the ASV. Also there is the Mornington Peninsula Astronomical Society (http://www.mpas.asn.au/). And there is the Snake Valley Astronomical Association, just outside Ballaarat (http://svaatest.site88.net/). It will depend on where you live, and whic is more convienient for you to travel to.

What scope have you bought, Piers?

[Liz]

:welcome: Piers ..... Good luck with the new scope, and onwards with the fun and games of observing those beautiful sights up above. :)

[Piers]

Thanks everyone for your advice, can't wait to get out there!

glenluceskies - I picked up a C8-SGT. I've heard some positive reviews, despite the learning curve.

[Suzy]

Hi Piers:welcome:
Hope you have fun and learn lots here, we have really nice people here that take the time to be as helpful as can be. Once you get your scope you will be surprised and amazed at the wonders of our skies. Enjoy! :2thumbs:

[M54]

Hi Piers,
:welcome: to IIS.
I can thoroughly recommend the www.asv.org.au (http://www.asv.org.au) and the New Astronomers Group, having done it over the last 12 months.:)

[DavidU]

Welcome to IIS.

[Moon]

Welcome - the C8-SGT is a nice size to start with, and the NexStar hand controller is really easy to use - I had it on my first scope (2 years ago) and it made it very easy to find my way around.
As Molly said, sign up for the ASV (or MPAS if you are down that way). Do some reading on polar alignment and sing out if you get stuck.
James

[danielsun]

Welcome Piers. I can highly recomend Snake Valley, they have a camp coming up in November. A great camp, friendly people and a great place to ask and learn where everyone is happy to help.
This is the thread from the last camp in March http://www.iceinspace.com.au/forum/showthread.php?t=53277&highlight=snake+valley+march&page=14

Cheers Daniel.