View Single Post
  #2  
Old 08-09-2007, 02:33 PM
ballaratdragons's Avatar
ballaratdragons (Ken)
The 'DRAGON MAN'

ballaratdragons is offline
 
Join Date: Jan 2005
Location: In the Dark at Snake Valley, Victoria
Posts: 14,412
Just my own thoughts:

Will astronomy clubs/societies etc still be relevant and/or growing and why?
Growing. There is more interest in Astronomy these days and it is increasing.

Will communities like Ice In Space affect the clubs/societies?
The development of many sites like IIS, SCP, Australian Astronomy, etc will affect clubs/societies, but only in the positive by creating interest in the first place.

How do you percieve the threat of light pollution -- will it kill us (metaphorically)?
Yes, to a point. I see the future as a time where more people will make an effort to visit dark skies, making an observing night a more organised event rather than just pulling the dob out of the shed for an hour or two. So, trips to dark sky sites should increase viewing time.

Will the CCD revolution kill visual observing?
No. Many people prefer 'visual' and beginners start with visual. Visual won't die.

What will the "kit" of the amateur astronomer be like?
We already have a plethora of great equipment at reasonable prices now, which was unheard of 10 years ago. It can only get better. A kit now includes GoTo's, DSC's, cameras etc, whereas it used to mainly consist of mostly just a scope. I don't think it waill change much now. Maybe more computers in the field.

Will the contribution of amateurs to the science of astronomy change and how?
Yes, because more of us are using better gear and getting better at using it. And more people getting into Astronomy. That's more eyes on the sky to notice more things.

Will amateur astronomy only be practiced by the well-heeled or will it diversify further?
It won't change. There will always be people at different levels of interest and expertise. But I believe the level of interest will increase.

Will amateurs still be making telescopes/equipment?
Yes, some people are die-hard ATM'ers.

Remember, these answers are just my views on the questions
Reply With Quote