[johngwheeler (John)]

OK, I'm relatively new to my (rediscovered!) hobby of astronomy. I've bought a 6" Maksutov-Cassegrain and an AVX mount, and have decided to add a 4" Refractor to the collection for "grab 'n go" and possible AP.

So I've got the telescope, learned how to set it up, downloaded some software and reference material....and now I just have to start observing.

But what? And how do I select from the vast number of objects that are visible?

It seems to me that some kind of "plan" would help me get the most from my observing time, rather than just going back to the few objects whose position I've learned, or randomly scanning the sky. (I do have some binoculars for the latter, which can be fun in its own right, although any findings also need to be noted for future reference, otherwise it's too easy to forget what I've seen)

What do experienced amateurs do?

Assuming the majority of this forum are not research astronomers who are looking for something very specific, how do you decide what to look at on any given night?

If you are an "all rounder" with a general interest in everything up there, do you dedicate a certain amount of time each session to particular kinds of objects? e.g. I'll start with wide field study of open clusters (while the scope cools down), then look at visible planets, then some double stars, then work my way through a list of DSOs?

Or do you dedicate a particular session to one kind of object depending on the conditions? e.g. very good seeing is reserved for planets, remote dark sky sessions (or star parties) for nebulae and other DSOs.

Do you work through any particular lists or catalogues? I have heard that going through the Messier objects is a good exercise, (although not completely feasible for those of us who live in Australia). I do wonder whether simply "ticking items off the list" somewhat removes the joy of discovery - but then again, I imagine many astronomical discoveries were made by just such a methodical approach.

Should I select objects based on the time of year for optimal viewing? I have one list for the southern hemisphere that shows the best month for viewing (high elevation), and this seems like a reasonable approach to go through a list.

I want to keep the hobby exciting and emotionally satisfying - not just a chore to get through "x DSOs" per month.

What are your thoughts on this?