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Old 27-12-2007, 10:18 PM
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erick (Eric)
Starcatcher

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Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: Gerringong
Posts: 8,548
Taf

If you follow the manual you won't go wrong. I don't know about the Skywatcher manuals, but most give all the information needed to get the scope functioning and tips on viewing and targets.

For what to look at now, get a copy of the latest Australian Sky & Telescope from the newsagent and look at the maps and articles there.

Here is a source of a free map to download. You want the Southern Hemisphere one, obviously:-

http://skymaps.com/downloads.html

A redlight torch, a planisphere, a comfortable stool to sit on while observing, perhaps some planetarium software on a laptop - you'll have all you need.

Always align the finderscope and start with the lower power eyepiece (the biggest focal length).

And, you'll need to keep your scope in collimation. Your manual will guide you, but you may wish to buy a collimation tool to help.

Happy viewing!
Eric
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