I liked Bill Greer's questions a lot and just thought Question number 9
should be added (see below). More suggestions are welcome!

When we have 'consensus' on its contents, we should keep a copy of it
somewhere. So if a regular S.A.A poster sees someone with the normal
"Which telescope should I buy?" question, then he or she can reply with
the questionnaire.

Hopefully the original poster will go through the effort of answering it
and send it back to the newsgroup. Then we can unleash our informed
advice onto the poor soul! ;-)


QUESTIONNAIRE

Please answer the following questions to the best of your ability.
Your answers will greatly assist us in directing you to the right
telescope for your needs.

1) What price range are you considering? Would you be willing to
spend more in order to get the performance you desire?

2) What would you like to be able to see? What specific details
would you want to be able to see in those objects?

3) Would you eventually want to use this telescope for photography,
CCD imaging, or any other specialized purpose?

4) What is the nearest city/town to the area in which you plan on
using the telescope? How far from this city/town do you intend to set
up and use your new telescope?

5) If size and weight are important factors, what are your
approximate limitations?

6) Do you want the telescope now; or are you willing to wait for the
right telescope?

7) Are there any specific features or capabilities you think you
would want or not want in your new telescope?

8) Is there anything else that would be important for us to consider
in order to direct you to the right telescope?

9) In which country do you stay? Some equipment manufacturers may not
have distributors there.


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25° 45' S
28° 12' E