I think,

and now correct me if I'm wrong here... when the sky is clear this kind of yellowish ball in the sky is bright and I think

it warms up the skin, may even burn sometimes, if unlucky you may even get blisters... I think....
Regarding the telescope, it's become an expensive ornament. I no longer remember what to do with it.

Perhaps I should hang it's mirror on the wall and get better use out of it.
Astro Ron assured me not so long ago, not to worry about the weather, there is plenty of winter observing left...Where are you Ron, I'm seeking you out, you told me a fib!