[sizzzzlerz]

Sounds like you've made a good start, if you're a first time scope owner. Even a modest telescope can provide you views of the solar system as well as deep sky objects that can take your breath away. If I could, a couple suggestions that can enhance your enjoyment of your scope as you become familiar with it and the sky.

First, keep a log of each viewing session. Note time and date, location, sky conditions, what you viewed. If you're so inclined, make sketches of what you see. Its nice, later on, to have a record of what you've look at and how it may have changed when you go back to it.

Second, find a local astronomy club you feel comfortable with. Most people will go out of their way to help a newbie. Attend any star parties that they may hold. They're great ways to see how others work and to see what other types of scopes can do. You will also learn how to better use what you have.

In any case, enjoy your scope. They can be great fun and they really bring home how wonderous the skies are.

[thomc]

Thanks for the suggestions, I will definitely take them on board!