Hi Ed,
Good to hear from someone viewing from New York. (BTW I once read of someone with a small telescope spotting a considerable list of minor planets from the roof of a building there, and having spent a few months at the YMCA on - was it 39th street? - many years ago, I can fully appreciate the challenge. I have done viewing Adrian's way many times( he could be joking, you know!) and ended up bored after a bit. What I do now - and we are all different - is focus on a constellation rising that I haven't seen for a while, look at my notes( you should eventually keep these, whatever else you don't do
) and make a list of perhaps ten or so objects that will be my targets. I use my favorite books and maps in compiling this list. I often spot some targets I haven't seen before or double stars I haven't tried. I am also conscious of my limited time outdoors( age gets wearisome
). A small light and notes on my back lawn ironing board(
) and probably two eyepieces. {Did I mention mosquito spray!} If I can nail and make notes of some good catches I am well satisfied and I often end up with the big and obvious candidates as a rich trifle and coffee for the night.....
Of course Jupiter or comet chasing can change all this or a mate that rings up with a challenge for me - the 'Have you seen this?" category. Just now a few keen star splitters are sending me on an infernal quest to split Sirius (you know who you are ;-)) Anyway,Ed, all viewing is worthwhile and we won't even mention the weird weather and ambiance in the great nocturnal outdoors.
Cheers, Eugene