Quote:
Originally Posted by Scooter
Hi Folks,
Couple of quick beginner questions (using a 12" dob) 
Like I said I am comming in and out (i.e check star maps on PC and then check scope etc. or watch some TV etc.) so I am not exactly properly adjusting my eyes etc. How much better would my viewing be if let myself fully dark adapt (got large openings to the deck that are lit although I am down one end in shadow etc.)? Probably not hardcore I know but certainly handy having it on the deck and being able to just have quick view when I feel like it through the night.
On the same vien as above if there are external light sources (like neighbours lights) should I be cutting them out (by viewing under ablanket etc.). How big a difference does it make?
How do you folks handle sessions given that best seeing is probably after 12-1pm etc? (is it? When do you think is best seeing or can it be anytime - i.e 9.00pm one night and 3.00am the next). I have thought about going to bed and then getting up but then you have cooling times etc. so just wondered what people do (staying up till 3.00am will put me out of comission the next day  ).
Anyone recommend some good dark sky sites near Brisbane?
Hmmmmmmm,
Thats about it for now  |
G'day mate, what I did when I started out squinting at the stars...oh, so long ago, last May
, I bought 10" dob and a laptop, put stellaris and carte du ciel on the lappy, bought a 15ft extention lead and now I don't need to go inside to check.
I also try to set up a viewing plan to see certain objects and follow that schedule.
Of course being retired makes it better in that I don't need to get to bed early etc...