Quote:
Originally Posted by erick
I recommend that you start with a Cheshire Collimator and follow its instructions. Most people seem to like the Orion Collimating eyepiece (around $69). Maybe you'll try different approaches and tools as you see other people using them?
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Thanks (again) Eric. I was not sure where to start as I read about laser pointers and colliimation tools, but it seems all I need is a collimation tool. Not that I think the scope needs it right now, but no doubt in time, and when I least expect it... I am struggling to get to star parties, I work fairly long hours and have a young family, but I hope to get to the big one (IISAC) in Lowstock where I hope to get some first hand knowledge from the more experienced gazers - already doing ground work with the wife on that one
. However, upgrading recently to the 10" Dob seems to have brought the heavens a little closer, and given me a deep appreciation for deep sky viewing. I am amazed at how well my Celestron 4" GT performs next to it though. Darn good scope that one. I found a SSWOLL tool for $70.00 on the web in a shop fairly close to me, I will pick that one up, and take the bit between the teeth
Thanks for all your help, I have taken to "just swinging" my scope around the sky as you suggested and have discovered a treasue trove I didn't know existed. The Butterfly cluster was my first Dob deep sky, and I rarely miss swinging across to see it on a viewing night. I feel a little silly now, but at the time I was so excited at it's beauty I ran in and dragged the whole family out to see this wonder. Each one expressed awe. I have found many objects scince, proud I managed to spot M13 (I am pretty sure), and the Orion nebula. Now that was really something. Now my next big goal is to spot myself a galaxy. Great stuff, not so keen on the cold at the moment.....but may have to brave it to see Mars and Saturn tonight. Getting there at my snails pace, but enjoying smelling the roses along the way