Quote:
Originally Posted by Mitchell.Stott
Thank you for the feedback. I was borrowing a telescope before now but have just returned it. It had an eq mount that was very clunky (although it was also old and stiff). This is pushing me in the direction of a Dobsonian but I have one main problem, how do you find stuff with it. My friend and I went observing and he has a Dob but we were having trouble finding things because there are no measurements on it. At least with a EQ mount you can find things with your right ascension and declaration.
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Hi Mitchell
I think you mean
declination!
However, it is relatively easy to start identifying the major constellations brighter stars, nebulae, clusters, and brighter planets. With the help of star charts, a planisphere, and planetarium software such as
Stellarium (it's a free download), or even iPod apps, you can find most significant objects in the night sky without reference to RA and Dec. From then on it is a matter of star-hopping to find the more elusive objects. This can be a challenge, but very rewarding.
Cheers
John