Hey ColHut - sounds like you are having fun with new scope, and seen some good sights despite poor skies. Keep us updated. I also bought this scope late last year, and had/have troubles with base, and hence havent used it as much. Have also recently had to clean mirror (interesting as all screws wouldnt go back in
) as filthy despite minimal usage
We have our Astronomy Group viewing this weekend so look forward to dragging it out again. I also have a trolley
Hope for good skies this weekend, let me know how you go with the base.