I received a telrad with my XT 8 and I am trying to decide where to place it. I have a disc in my low back (L5 and S1) that is deteriorating and from time to time, my back can go out. Someone has recommended a telrad riser though I haven't seen them at any Star Party's I've attended. Here is what I have done and what I am thinking. I am using black electrical tape to try different positions on the scope. I've come down to these options: 1. I've seen the Finderscope removed and the telrad mounted there. I have enjoyed the telrad when I haven't been able to successful star hop, but find I really like star hopping to find my objects. 2. Since I like star hopping, I've seen the telrad mounted either up near the top and to left of the finder or between the finder and the eyepiece. I have liked it up higher as it is easier on the back. 3. Suggestions based on your long experience would be helpful and appreciated. On another note I have a question for recommendations for transporting the XT 8 or XT 6 that I have to a Star Party or to a dark sky spot?I don't own a truck or SUV only a 2006 Nissan Altima; each scope will fit with the seat down and my 14 year old son in the back holding them. I don't have the money until Jan/Feb next year for a case (unless I get one as a gift at Christmas) for either scope so any suggestions what to wrap them up in during transport (a blanket?)? Also, one last thing. On Friday morning I got up at 3:30 and got set up and around 4:20 started observing and was looking at M42/43. After sketching it I went on to a few other items like Sigma Orionis and M41. After sketching M41 I went back to M42/43 for its beauty and splendor had really blown me away (sorry, newbie here). This time though as I looked at it in low power I could discern a greenish blue and greenish gray color to the nebula that was stronger near the Trapezium and fainter as I went out from the four stars. My question is has anyone else ever seen that greenish color before and is that possible or am I just seeing things? Usually deep sky objects to me have been pretty much white and grey.