Well, after a quick naked eye view & then grabbing my planishere, I retrieve the good old Herald Bobroff, select the applicable chart/s, n go from there...
Also have a quick squiz at the Astro 2006 to check on Jupiter events early in the night & keep checking during the session. Like to watch the 'moon/s dance'.
L.
ps. Also like to keep an eye on the favourites too, like Eta Carina, 5128, M42 etc...
btw & fwiw, I tried for the 'spikes' in/on the 'Homunculus' last viewing night, but was unable the resolve due to conditions. Will try again. (next time, you beast).L.