It's good to know that I wasn't alone in hitting a few hurdles at the start. There does seem to be a leap from beginner to the next step up, with the jargon and technical terminology being a bit of an early barrier to get over. And I think
everyone could have something to say on getting a good polar alignment.
As someone who has been a photographer in another life, I agree that getting a good sharp image of something that's many light years away, moving, and taken in the dark, has a large amount of satisfaction. Costs aside...
Thanks folks. Do keep your thoughts coming.
(Steve - I was into archery as a younger fellow. I understand.
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