rockystar

Booked

I'm going to book for 3 nights next week. I've hardly been out with my telescope this year

have you been smoking before you observe? I do think you need to give us a bit more info to get you the help you need

I had them ready to take and then forgot to pack them too many clouds for aurora, on our way home now

I'm currently stood under what I am certain would be the darkest skies I will ever experience.... and it's a near full moon! I've seen the blackness of the clouds, but tonight is clear, so I've had a wonder out with my mk1 eyeballs and it's gorgeous, just a shame about the moon. #Lapland Merry Christmas

I use an ironing chair, but it's not easily adjustable, so may start looking for alternatives in the new year

I use the one that John linked to. It's just at the right level of detail for my 8" dob. I keep it in one of these: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00LTLCC5K/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_i_6EofCbVZDSXZP

Is it a better telescope? Yes. Is it better for you? That's more complicated. It has way more light gathering ability, so can see fainter objects, but it is bigger and heavier and thus less mobile, so it depends on you. If possible try and see one IRL and make an informed decision about if it will be best for you.

For your viewing pleasure:

I've got the ExSci82 24mm with mine and it's great. Not tried the 30mm. Well within budget and a great EP

Top tip: keep the scope horizontal when tweaking the secondary mirror, but I'll sure this lesson is now learned. First thing is to make sure the secondary look a round and not oval when looking through the focus tube.

You missed the most important one when buying new equipment: SWMBO - She Who Must Be Obeyed

Rainy objects are just the worst

Might they be a bit heavy for a 130 Newtonian ? I only have experience of the 24mm (which is excellent), which is a heavy beast - don't know how the rest of the range compares.

I should also say, that there are also a few nebula where a filter makes all the difference between seeing and not - but as a beginner, I wouldn't worry about those to start with, as thereis plenty up there