'First Sight'

[DonB (Don)]

Well, it's not the first time I've used the gear, but it is the first time I've really SEEN anything.

My astronomy journey started a couple of weeks ago when I picked up a Meade 2045 LX3, a 4" SCT, at a garage sale for $80. It was complete and in excellent condition. It quickly became apparent that the bundled finder scope wasn't suitable, and the 9MM & 25MM Meade MA EPs weren't ideal (I think the 9MM actually has a negative ER )

I thought if I was going to give astronomy a go at least I should give it a fair shot so I embellished the scope with a red dot finder and two new eyepieces, a 42mm GSO and a 15mm BST Expl.

I won't bother relating the tribulations that beset my first couple of outings, but today not long after I set up I was treated to a glorious view of the Jewel Box.

It brought a smile to my face.

Thanks for reading.

Cheers,

Don

[Allan_L (Allan)]

Good on ya Don,
I think most of us started out a bit rocky.
But perseverance brings reward.

The jewel box was one of my first successes too.
Along with saturn.

Its great to be reminded of the WOW! experience.

Keep up the good work. Buy a planishere. Or Download Stellarium to help you find more local objects.
For example, some easy southern hemisphere objects to try to find
47 tuc
Omega Centauri
Eta Carina

Ask if you have any questions

Clear Skies
Al

[jjjnettie (Jeanette)]

what a great start to the hobby.

[Ric]

Hi Don and welcome to IIS.

The Jewel box is always a great way to start your astronomical adventures.

I know Tura Beach well, I hope those evening clouds and mist that roll in aren't too frustrating.

Cheers

[DonB (Don)]

Thanks Al, jjjnettie, and Ric for the warm welcome and your comments.

Al, I have Stellarium and really like it, great piece of software. I've put your suggested objects on my list for tonight (hopefully) except for 47 Tuc which looks to low to be seen from where I'll be viewing. Looking forward to the others!

Some stunning images on the sites in your sig jjjnettie, just gorgeous.

Ric, so far this week the sky has been very clear. According to AstroPanel should be that way tonight and tomorrow too. If it is, I'll be out there.

Thanks again!

Don