Like a few others, I got interested in 1986 when 'Halley's' comet was a really big event. Bought Tasco 114 EQ soon afterwards for a starter & managed to see the impact sites of 'Shoemaker-Levy 9' on Jupiter in '94. Been observing & learning ever since. Joined a local Society in '95, left after a while, n started the W.A.A.C.ers with a few other interested folk in April '99.
A great experience in 'learning & teaching' in this fascinating hobby.
L.