> The real reason there are less hams is because it is a
> social change.
Maybe that is why the hobby of amateur astronomy, and
deep sky observing with rather large (for amateur use)
telescopes has grown so dramatically the last 10 years
or so. Just try to obtain a new, large (14" up) scope
from one of the prime suppliers! Up to 1 year wait for
some (Starmasters with Zambuto or Pegasus optics)
for example. You want an excellent new scope in
time for the coming Mars opposition the Summer
of 2003? Better send in your 50% deposit NOW, or
you might not get one in time!
And these things are several thousand dollars each!!
The attendance at all night "star parties" in remote and
very dark sites all over the US is growing rapidly. Plus
you wind up buying a new SUV, pickup or trailer to
take these new toys about.
Interesting social change, folks looking for "answers"
maybe out among the stars?? More interesting than
DX chasing? There are many challenging observing
lists, just as there are many challenging DX entities to
find. So, similar allure in some areas.
And yes, for many amateur astronomy is a very technical
hobby....lots of CCD imaging going on!
Just added thought on social change. BTW, there is no
national hobby "club" for astronomy as there is for us
hams, hi.
73, Jim KH7M
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