[Ronaldus Magnus Reagan]

Sally,

Forget about looking at individual stars through the telescope. The stars are so far away that you won't be able to see a disk, only a pinpoint of light. You need to look at other things. Start with Jupiter and it's moons. You will probably see the bands across Jupiter's disk and at least 4 moons (if they arn't behind Jupiter at the moment). Then go to Saturn and see the rings (if they arn't edge-on at the time of year you are looking). Go to Uranus and you might see a blue-green disk (with no features). Get a sky chart and hop-scotch your way from one point of light to the next and you might actually see Pluto! (but doubtful if you only bought a $1,000 telescope).

Best objects besides the big planets are the galaxies and nebulas. And the occasional comets!

At any rate, it's a great reason to bond with your family outside at night while sipping some hot chocolate!

As the cruise line advertising says..."GET OUT THERE"!
LOL!
Enjoy the time with your Dad.

[Sally II]

Thanks for the advice, Ronaldus. When we've tried looking at the stars we just aimed for the brightest lights. I guess that wasn't the best method. We'll give it another try on a clear night. :o)