stevend

I saw Dragon last night, only briefing as it was a short window, two more chances this evening before it returns.

https://www.heavens-above.com/PassSummary.aspx?satid=49220&lat=51.59&lng=-0.78&loc=Unnamed&alt=0&tz=GMT

 

28 minutes ago, Arlington1 said:

I will work a little harder to getting my finder scope alligned. I have already done it on a distant telegraph pole this morning but will check against some stars tonight.

 

I checked my FS alignment last night by using Jupiter (before aligning the scope via the handset).

4 minutes ago, Arlington1 said:

Thanks @Cosmic Geoff

Solar align does make sense, as I have no issues finding Jupiter!

One thing I would like answered for sure. How accurate does the location need to be? If I select Brighton, when I am in hastings (30 miles away) is that going to put things well out or make little difference?

I used google earth to get the coordinates of my back garden. Otherwise; I use two star align for general viewing (2 stars at least 90 degrees apart) and solar system align if I am just looking at planets and the moon (eg like Jupiter and Saturn last night).

8 hours ago, Paul M said:

However, sunset might be a different story. The thin crescent Moon between Venus and Jupiter. Might be worth a punt! 

Joined by the ISS on the 29th at 1635 ish.

14 hours ago, DevonSkies said:

I'm still on the lookout for a relatively lightweight scope for lunar, planetary and double star observations. I have a 10" Dob which will obviously wipe the floor with most small scopes, but I often can't be bothered with lugging it out to the garden for a quick look at the moon or Jupiter.

Thanks,

Ed

Those are my main targets and I find my Mak is ideal for them, plus I like its portability which you imply as well. The 127 Mak is good for up to c200X, above that it needs very good conditions and most of my viewing is done at 100x or 125x. You will need a dew filter, you probably have the EPs and I use an external power supply source (do not rely on batteries for the motor).

Qualia, this is fantastic.

Just got back from a holiday and read this thread. Wonderful stuff.

I have only used FLO and Sky's The Limit and both have been superb;

- answering emails and giving advice, even if it means spending less money

- properly packaged and speedy delivery

- (FLO) quickly resolving a warranty return

I got the feeling these were companies run people who cared about both astronomony and their potential customers before I even placed an order.I would not hesitate to recommend both of them.

I've been browsing this site since I decided to purchase my first 'telescope' a few months back and all I can say is what a wealth of knowledge there is on this site! True community feeling with people trying to help each other out, even with some obvious newcomer questions like some I've posted. Hope the site keeps going on and on in the same spirit!

I could not agree more. It is so rare to find such a knowledgeable community with enthusiasm, a lack of condescension and a desire to share experiences and help all from complete beginners to experts. You often come away with more questions than you started with, but later on realise that this is a good thing.