[tjr]

Is there an open-to-the-public observatory anywhere near you? About a half-hour from where I live there is a small observatory with some reasonably heavy-duty telescopes, and areas to set up your own telescope, with monthly "guided tours" of what can be seen at each respective time of the year.

[jk8]

Yes, I found one. It is open to public only on tuesday's, so I will have to check it out. Thanks for the tip.