[AEAJR (Ed)]

I selected GoTo primarily because of my very light polluted sky. Not a lot of naked eye visible stars for pointing a telrad or a red dot. The 9X50 RACI finder on the Dob makes it easier but still not a lot up there.

I find the computer aid most valuable when I am looking for new targets or when I am working a list. As my viewing sessions are usually about 60 to 90 minutes long I would rather spend the time on the targets rather than searching for them. Aligning the scope takes 5 minutes so that leaves more time for viewing and less for hunting.

I work 10 hours a day so I don't do a lot of chart work today though I am accumulating the tools and charts and will some day better develop those skills, perhaps if I ever retire.

I am still a casual observer, not deeply focused. Still very much a tourist rather than a committed astronomer. More interesting in looking at than looking for what I want to see.

But, for now, having that computer help when I am looking for new things is really great. And having the Goto scope track when I have my private star parties is a great assist. Allows me to focus more on my guests and less on guiding the scope.