my canon 1000d/rebel xs is also about 2 weeks old and i too am experimenting with it.but i must say its an awesome camera for this price.the pics u see above were taken from within a metropolitian city with street lights and city light around.and through the naked eye not more than 20,30 stars were visible.i took them at 2o seconds exposure at ISO 800.dont forget to change the white balance to daylight mode.i too am anxious to capture the milkyway but for that i will have to travel atleast 300km.so i am waiting for the right time.till then i plan to make some time lapse videos.you have any idea when i will be able make a thread cause currently i can even send a PM to the moderator