And the best thing is, it's loads of fun!
By the time one works through the
Messier Catalog, you've unwittingly developed a keen observing eye and you are primed to step forth with confidence into the broader universe of deep-sky observing.
When I started out, I worked through the
Messier Catalog in about 4 months with my 12" dobsonian.
But! You don't need large
aperture to view these objects provided you aren't inundated with light pollution. I've been working back through the objects with one of my 80mm refractors in my typically
Bortle 5 backyard sky. Using my notes supplemented with some from my other scopes, I was able to earn my
TSS Messier badges. My notes are here if interested:
https://www.theskysearchers.com/viewtop ... =89&t=7699
Plus you get a cool looking, suitable for framing, certificate!
Which just reminded me, I owe a couple of folks a certificate...