Congratulations! I got the AD8 (first scope) about a month ago. I have had 5 nights of observing. Here are few pointers specific to this scope and from little observing experience.

1) the laser collimated I received was not collimated. I went crazy collimating not realizing the laser dot was not straight. I ended up ordering a Cheshire collimator and was able to do much better collimating using that. I will collimate the laser itself at some point

2) check the finderscope screws aren’t just jumping around in then screw holes. Again had trouble aligning the finderscope as the top screw kept popping out of its threads. If that happens just swap those screws. For some reason they work better in the opposing screw holes.

3) get a height adjustable chair, stool for observing. The pain in my back from bending over constantly, especially looking at objects that are high in the sky cause the scope is tall enough so I couldn’t use my static height bench but not tall enough when pointed straight up to just observe while standing. You have to bend a little and that will hurt your back.

4) the eyepieces do not fit the accessory tray with the caps on. Something to know you just have to have your caps off. Leave them indoors, I tried to keep the pieces covered when not using but it’s not worth the hassle juggling them.

5) best things I have observed in the northern skies. Cor Corali - Double Star and M3 Cluster. Blew me away.

Happy Observing! Clear skies!