Current seeing: 

Where to get stuff

Retail Telescopes

A few places I've shopped for telescopes and binoculars and had great experiences and success. Also, information on how to purchase a first telescope.

Some books I either have owned or currently own and recommend for the beginning to intermediate astronomer

Sites to find surplus or new lenses, mirrors, eyepieces, and other telescope building supplies for the new or experienced amateur telescope maker.

One last thing: Please be sure to turn off your outdoor lights, or if you must have an outdoor light on, be certain it is a full cut-off fixture, and the minimum wattage required. No sense in lighting the underside of planes at night - it just ruins the night sky for everyone else! Besides, doing so really will save you money on your electric bills. For more information about light pollution, please visit the International Dark Sky Association.