any astronomy enthusiasts here?

Wozza · any astronomy enthusiasts here?

Since childhood I have always been fascinated by the universe - I could (and frequently do) spend hours gazing at the clear night sky.

So, last week after some spectacular night skies (full moon, Venus looking really good at 4am! - like a tiny half moon) I decided that my binoculars don't do the heavens any justice and today I bought myself an astronomical telescope (Skywatcher 130EQ2). Took a few hours to set up - and wouldn't you know, it's flipping raining tonight so no chance of my first proper peep at the night sky tonight
Sad

I just wanted to know if there are any members out there who are also interested in the cosmos and preferably own a telescope who could give some tips ect to a beginner Rolling Eyes

Ta

reg

Well, there is me. I've had a telescope of one kind or another since I was about 6 when my nan gave me a small scope for my birthday. I now have a Tasco 4.5 inch reflector, which I have had for about 12 years now. I don't use it as often as I used to, but its still good to get out and have a look at the night sky from time to time. I still remember being really excited when I was 7 years old, and pointed the small telescope at a bright star, only to look through it, and see Saturn, rings and all.
With the big scope, I can see Jupiter as a disc about an inch or so across, showing the cloud formations and the moons. I can also get a close enough look at some stars to split the binary pairs, and have seen a triple star system as well.

bluea61

I have had a telescope for many years and don't really use it as much as I'd like. I find looking at stars are pretty same old, and doesn't really improve the view.

The moon however is a totally different thing. I find it fascinating the detail you can see and with a moon map you can pick out areas of interest, ie landing sites.

I managed to pick up jupiter a few years ago, and could make out the shape and the features on the surface.

Wozza

This is mine, only I had the upgraded version with the 'red dot finder'

A cloudy night again tonight so still not had a chance to look the night sky Sad

nemesis scribe

I am often 'spaced out' haha.

However, i do not own a telescope LOL Shocked

I have been to the Kennedy Space Centre In Florida and while there we met . . . Jim Lovell!!!!!!! How cool is that?? He was a really nice guy.

Apollo AD 13 Cool

bluea61

Nimmykins

I had a little telescope given to me one Christmas, but it wasn't good enough for astronomy, it was better for bird watching.

I've always been interested in the stars though. It's amazing to think what's out there in the universe.

Maybe some of us should get together for a tripped to Greenwich.

Auntie Murial

Never had a telescope of my own but like alot of you guys i love the stars and would be interested in knowing which ones are which.

bluea61

I have a star map at home, but its very difficult to relate unless the sky is really cleear and the light pollution is low. Hence why I like planet spotting instead.

Professor

I have always been fascinated by the sky at night and whats the universe all about, but cant say i ever got into it proper!

i often use this great site http://www.heavens-above.com/ for finding where the Space Station is (amongst other things) and then viewing the little station whizzing by at 19000 mph with tiny men on, its amazing.

Check out when its passing over you soon..