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so new
Mar 1, 2007 22:20:31 GMT
Post by billygoat on Mar 1, 2007 22:20:31 GMT
hi everyone, well first im glad i found this site as im sure its going to help me gat off the ground with my interests in astronomy. Being totally honest im right at the beginning and its so frustrating not knowing how to set up the telescope, where to look etc... i have been interested for many years now and i have only now decided to do something about it (about time too!) so at this stage any tips, advice anything would be so appreciated. So typical of weather too, the first chance i had tonight to view the skies, telescope out, climatising nicely, then the clouds roll on in, great!!!! still im sure the wait is well worth it. Many thanks Billy
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so new
Mar 1, 2007 22:29:55 GMT
Post by markdj on Mar 1, 2007 22:29:55 GMT
Hi Billy
If you are in the area, we will be observing and helping with scope setup on Saturday evening while viewing the eclipse at Ballyearl. Everyone is very welcome to attend and we can help you get started on the night.
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so new
Mar 1, 2007 23:12:48 GMT
Post by mia on Mar 1, 2007 23:12:48 GMT
Welcome Billy, I'm in the same boat as yourself but whilst it's frustrating not knowing what to look for etc, it's great knowing you have all this stuff to look forward to. I've learnt so much (tho opinion would differ!) in only a few months thanks to all involved in the society, different members have different specialities (we haven't figured out Eamonn's!) but mine is an overuse of brackets in my posts! Seriously tho, as Mark said, try and come on Saturday or to the meeting on Monday night. The observing nights are wonderful (when they do take place, B***** Weather!)and people are really extremely patient and helpful. Introduce yourself if you're there on Saturday (I'm usually the confused one looking for Neil Patterson) What scope do you have?
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so new
Mar 2, 2007 20:39:54 GMT
Post by billygoat on Mar 2, 2007 20:39:54 GMT
hi there thanks for your quick replies, its good to know that people are out there willing to help with advice etc to guide me on my way. To explain briefly, i moved over here from the dark mountain ranges of scotland where i spent many night looking up, i got some really good views, found myself in a dream half the time!! now i live in derry, so im still a bit shady as to where certain places are. i would love to come on saturday night, but i have to check with my wife as she is nurse on shift work. if someone can give me directions as to where to go, that would be great. Telescope, right well, just give a minute...right found it, 203-1000mm reflector, focal ratio f/4.9, mount eq 8v. not an expensive one but it will do for a start im sure. so if any body can translate id be greatfull, many thanks ...Billy.
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so new
Mar 2, 2007 20:43:56 GMT
Post by eamonnpkeyes on Mar 2, 2007 20:43:56 GMT
Basically an 8" reflector...quite nice for a starter!!!!! We might be a bit far away for you, Billy, as we'd be meeting about 8 miles your side of Belfast!!!!
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so new
Mar 2, 2007 21:07:19 GMT
Post by billygoat on Mar 2, 2007 21:07:19 GMT
hi there, i really dont mind the distance at all simply because i really want to try and get an understanding of it all. i think to start with id love to venture out some weekend when you have something organised and ill happily come along and enjoy the fun!!
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so new
Mar 2, 2007 22:20:56 GMT
Post by eamonnpkeyes on Mar 2, 2007 22:20:56 GMT
Tomorrow night's the night, then...or Monday night.
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so new
Mar 3, 2007 13:49:01 GMT
Post by eamonnpkeyes on Mar 3, 2007 13:49:01 GMT
If you're coming tonight, Billy, just head to Belfast, but come off the M2 at the Glengormley exit. Then take the A8 to Larne. You'll come to two roundabouts from then, one is Corr's Corner...you'll see the hotel there. Stay on the A8, and at the next roundabout take the right hand (3 o clock) exit. You'll see the sign there to Ballyearl Arts And Leisure Centre. It's about half a mile down the road on the left hand side. Hope you can make it!
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so new
Mar 3, 2007 17:36:06 GMT
Post by billygoat on Mar 3, 2007 17:36:06 GMT
aaah my wife is working night shift tonight, baby sitting duties!!! i really would love to come too! if possible can somebody keep me posted as to when the meets are and ill check the rota. I hope it stays clear for you this evening, one weather report suggests it should be a good one for you all.
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so new
Mar 3, 2007 17:41:52 GMT
Post by eamonnpkeyes on Mar 3, 2007 17:41:52 GMT
Pity....thanks for the good wishes, and hopefully we'll see you soon! yes, looking good so far, and I'm just leaving now to prepare things.
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so new
Mar 3, 2007 17:42:39 GMT
Post by eamonnpkeyes on Mar 3, 2007 17:42:39 GMT
Pity....thanks for the good wishes, and hopefully we'll see you soon! yes, looking good so far, and I'm just leaving now to prepare things.
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