[Discuss] astronomy suggestions?

[eric.chadbourne at gmail.com (Eric Chadbourne)]

Hi All,

I'm looking for a new hobby and astronomy looks perfect.  Low entry
barrier, amateurs can actually assist real scientists and it's
fascinating.  I just downloaded stellarium and omg is it excellent.
Works great on my terribly under powered laptop with an amd c-50 cpu.
Any astronomy geeks on the list?  If yes what software do you like?
Any local groups you suggest?

Thanks,

Eric

"All mass is interaction."  Richard Feynman