New to stargazing - good websites?

[callmedave]

I got a telescope for my birthday, ive always had an interest in astronomy, but im stuck on how to get full use of my telescope.

I would like to find some sort of online 'calender' or guide for astrological events, i.e. Mars closest pass, comet passes, etc.

I would also like to watch a few tutorial videos of proper telescope uses and tips.

I have googled for this, but i find more shops trying to show you how to use their own equipment, or info that too advanced for my understanding.

If anyone has useful websites for me, id be very grateful.


I was viewing the moon last week and it really was amazing, im hoping ot try and locate the moon landing sites. Apollo, etc.

[callmedave]

Thanks for all the input, i quickly looked at star gazers lounge, there seems a lot of good info there to get me started, Il probably pop into the library at the weekend and grab a few books.

Some one asked what model the telescope is, i think its a fairly cheap ebay jobby, but i know its a refracture type with 76mm aparture and 700mm

Ive got a 20mm, 12.5 and 4mm eye piece, and a barlow. When im using my barlow i can never seem to focus.

Heres a picture i took, this was holding my phone to the eyepiece, the image was amazingly clear, the phone made it blurry.

[callmedave]

jmorgan said:

You can get clamps for phones on scopes, just need to find the sweet spot.

I could make something at work using an old case..... *rubs chin*