Star Mags, Maps and Parties

If you are new to stargazing, gather a couple of star magazines like Sky and Telescope or Astronomy before you consider purchasing a telescope. Get a good map of the heavens like Norton's Star Atlas or at least a simple field guide to astronomy.

Check out your local astronomy clubs and then plan to attend a "star party" if there is one in your area. You can get a ton of useful been-there-done-that information that will help you as you get serious about stargazing.