I finally caught the Andromeda galaxy from my sister's farm outside Dodge City after 8 failed tries
The secret was waiting for a new moon in October and driving 40 minutes past town to escape the light dome, and now I want to know if anyone else has found a spot that beats their usual backyard setup.
Driving 40 minutes past town to escape the light dome is the whole trick and most people never try it. They take a few shots in the yard, get a washed out blob, and give up. The same thing happens with fishing spots and quiet places to read, the good stuff is almost never right where you already are. You have to be willing to go a little further than feels normal. Eight tries stings but that is usually what it takes before it clicks. Now that you know the drive works, the next new moon is basically a free win.