I'm new to astral photography...what lenses are required? Or actually, what focal length are you all using?

DB, I belong to two camera clubs in the South Bay area of Los Angeles. They are quite different in their approach to photography, and appeal to different types of photographers. One club is the South Bay Camera Club (www.sbccphoto.org). You can check out our website and see much of what we do. Here's a synopsis: we meet twice a month in the meeting room of the local airport (for a fee, of course). One meeting each month, we have a local "expert" present a photographically related topic (this year, we have had Techniques of Printing at home; Posing Models; Shooting Macro; Using Lightroom, and so forth. The other meeting each month is a "critique" meeting, in which we have local professionals critique photos submitted by club members (max of 2 per meeting). One month is actual Prints, the other months they are digitally uploaded and presented via projector.
We have a member who researches and organizes local "day trip" shoots and another who does the same for multiday excursions. Latest was 4 days in Anza Borrega State Park with a park expert for a guide. For the past two years, we have had a month-long exhibit on display at El Camino College library which has been widely acclaimed. We do more, but you get the idea. Check out our web site.
The other club meets once per month, and sits around a huge table at a local community center. We do two main things each meeting. First, we go around the table and each member shares any photographic-related information, brochures, exhibits, etc. of which they are aware. Second go-around is when each member can share several photos (usually enlarged) with the group for peer critiquing. That's the main order of business. Periodically, someone will organize a shoot somewhere, but it's sporadic.
I realize this is a different demographic, but somewhere between the two extremes of these two, you should be able to find a starting point. First thing is probably to sit down and figure out what your goals are...social, improving skills, sharing, whatever. Our club appeals to newbies through professionals.
If you have further questions, I can be reached at compubob.king@gmail.com, too.

What are the advantages to moving up to version 12? I keep upgrading every two years or so as Adobe comes up with another version. Is it worth it (even given the relatively low cost)?

After reading OddJobber's reply, I checked out the Dolica tripods and went with the Dolica ZX600B300 Proline ZX series 60 inch carbon fiber with Gitzo-style ball head. Only had it 3 days now, but my camera is much more steady in this tripod than in my last one. Have to get out and use it more.

Oddjobber (and all the others who responded to my query),
Thanks for your input. The guy at my local photo store recommended the MeFoto tripod...but his boss (the owner of the store...whom I know) does not. He still wants me to spend more money!! Surprise!

So, I thank you for your input. I hope to be able to find a replacement for my broken Promaster 6400 based upon your comments.

Again, thanks!!!

Thanks, Photoflorida,

I understand there are two versions of the tripod, an aluminum one and a carbon fiber one...the CF is about $100 more expensive.

Is that significant? Is the aluminum one sufficient for irregular usage?

Oddjobber, you say one can get "much more solid ones for less money."

Specifically, can you name some? I'm a pensioner with a small pension, and cannot afford the big bucks that's being charged for "good" tripods and ball heads.

I, too, am considering the MePhoto A2350...but was hoping for carbon fiber rather than aluminum.

Any help out there?