This is cool advice renormalised. Thanks!
I take it these could be a factor in the diminished brightness of objects in a sky that appears dark but isn't truly. Particularly faint objects like galaxies, and even nebulae like Tarantula. I suppose I was observing slighly after a waxing gibbous moon, so as you said, that has an effect, as do the other factors you mentioned. I can't wait till i get to experience a truly dark sky. There may be some opportunities in a couple of months for it! Can't wait to see Uranus and Neptune. I'm hoping to see the comet in a couple of weeks too, which would be a treat.
Meanwhile, do you have any suggestions about the equipment questions I had? I shall post photos if you like...
I've never seen a planetary neb yet either... any obvious suggestions for my next outing next new moon?
Kind regards
DSB