I pulled out the Z10 on Wednesday and decided to watch Jupiter since the full moon was putting off a lot of light.  Got the new Telrad sighted in and must say that I'm impressed. It really helps find even simple objects like the Moon or Jupiter much easier. I used a 7mm Baader orthoscopic and a 5mm Hyperion to view Jupiter.  Both EP's worked very well.  However, I decided to use the new Hotech laser to adjust the scope outside and I must say that it made a big difference in the quality of the image that I saw before and after on Jupiter.  Right after using it, and only made a slight adjustment, I was able to see the shadow of Io dead smack in the middle of Jupiter.  The shadow appeared darker in the orthoscopic EP; however, the 5mm hyperion was performing great and the wider field is nice.  That was the first time that I have seen a transit I I watched as Io popped out the other side  like a small dimple.  It was very cool.  I was fighting the wind a little but I was able to see plenty of detail from time to time.

It has been clear here for days and I hope to have my first look at Mars this evening.

Eric