On 1 Nov 2003 02:16:31 -0800, (Bernie) wrote:

I have been active in casual astronomy for many years using 9X63
binoculars. However I have always promised myself a proper telescope
which I hope to order in the future, mostly for personal observations
and enjoyment.

However I cannot fail from reaching the conclusion that from the 60's
the role of the amateur astronomer has become a more and more minor
role. With the event of NEAT and LINEAR, the liklihood of amateur
discovering future comets has been severely reduced.

What aspects of astronomy do you consider to be still open, whereby an
amateur astronomer may still take part in serious astronomical
research?

There are areas where the amateur can be useful and I'm sure others
will describe them better than I can.

However, one role that is often overlooked is that of ambassador to
the public. With the advent of high quality imaging and some
spectacular pictures of all manner of astronomical subject, it's
easier to spark a non-astronomers interest in the subject. This
cannot be a bad thing.

--
Pete Lawrence
http://www.pbl33.co.uk