[glennp]

Hi all from outer Sth East Melbourne.
Im new to the hobby.
Ive tried the physical - standing next to the telescope and peering into the eyepiece - but i dont know what i am looking for - or at! And i cant share that with my wife and kids.
I have a Meade ETX125 and a laptop. My goal is to set the scope up on the tripod outside and view the stars on the laptop - and of course drive it from the laptop. I want to use some software to help me point the telescope at things of interest.
I would like to see colour pictures on my laptop, but ultrafine astrophotography is not a goal for me. I just want to see things!
I am looking at buying a Meade DSI 2 to fulfil this goal.
Can I put some questions to you all.
Im told the Meade DSI will do the job - but it is at the higher end of the price market. What other options are there for me?
Ive seen people modifying webcams for the purpose - but when I say I am not that technically skilled, I really mean it. Can I buy a webcam or similar for my purpose already set up ready to screw in?
I also would really like an experienced person to provide some 1 on 1 tutoring for a few hours - are there any locals interested in earning a little money to help me out in this?
Looking forward to your advice.
GP