Amongst our forum members, are there any amateur astronomers?

I got the bug recently and wish to pick some experienced brains on the matter.

PMs welcomed.

Here you go Handy...plenty of info in this lot mate.

Google Search Result

Cheers, Vince

I only know one star - the one that guides me home. The North Star. The angle above the horizon corresponds to yer latitude.

Vince: I appreciate the link. "Astronomy for Dummies" has been an excellent written source and lead to the purchase of a nice telescope which I took to the northern country for some viewing. Its got a computer controlled finder. Once properly aligned, you simply input the code for the features you wish to see. It does the rest. Focus and enjoy. Amazing, simply amazing. Nebulas, galaxies, planets, star clusters, double stars -- all in splendid detail,

I know this is a forum for firearms and hunting and related subjects, but, the next time you are relaxing under those stars, imagine that you could get a lot closer.

My shooting buddy and I both enjoy having a "bo peep" at the heavens when we are sitting around the fire at night out in the bush. He is an amateur Star Gazer and he has taught me bits and pieces about the Cosmos.

The best place by far to vier the heavens is well out into the bush...the ambient light in the city is not there to spoil the view...the sky is much clearer. I was even able to view the rings of Saturn through my 20x spotting scope! Not a great view, but the basic shape was evident and identifiable.

Cheers, Vince