Next on the learning list is collimation.

Tried to follow the 130EQ collimation instructions without a collimating tool and ended up just fiddling around with the various knobs and screws. Managed to make all my stars a very sparkling, eggy smear. Not a perfect start, but not to be deterred.

Went to the society observatory and dug out a laser collimator. Fiddled around a bit, but came to the conclusion it was out of batteries as there was certainly no laser. A kind guy there helped my try to do it manually by staring down the barrel and then doing the out of focus star donut approach. This worked to a degree, but think the main issue is with the 'experimentation' I performed on my secondary. Far, far too much allen key action.

I read a very good guide on the interweb : http://www.garyseronik.com/?q=node/169 and am now going to attempt the unthinkable and dismantle the telescope to put a ring binder sticker on my primary mirror. Oh the advances in technology we have made. I am also going to get hold of my very own Cheshire collimation tool.

I will report back on this surgery when I can get over from laughing at the reality of what it is I am actually going to do.