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I agree with many of Rod's points, although I don't agree that "The reality of the current economy is no doubt numero uno..." As Rod points out, these troubles have been brewing at the magazines for some time, long before the current economic downturn. I think he hit the nail on the head with the internet and the more connected amateur community of today versus twenty or more years ago.

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Well put, a slow economy primarily kills off the "weak". Those reading the environment correctly and doing the "right thing" weather it out just fine.

Overall I think Rod covered it pretty well, although I am still wondering why a "conglomerate" would be interested in a low-volume niche mag like S&T. I'll put it my vote for more stuff in the back of the magazine and less in the front. The only amateur stuff that gets covered well is imaging (although those interested in imaging may disagree). Why not for example, have two or three articles per month on deep sky observing? There are lots of constellations up each month to be covered.

Definitely more equipment reviews. And when the product is flawed, please say so and stop trying so hard to find nice things to say about it. If you guys want to find something nice to say about a manufacturer, then why not do an in-depth personal interview or tour of their plant?

And of course, telescope making. Not just finished scopes built by master machinists that I could never do (although I must admit, I like those articles too), but some fundamental articles on things like optical fabrication or structural basics. Even reprinting the old articles from 30 years ago on these topics would be helpful.

Right now Sky & Tel is like a narcotic for me. I so much crave the day of its arrival in the mail and am ecstatic when I get my hands on each new issue. Then after about 20 minutes of fast skimming the high is over and I come crashing to earth again when the reality of the content sets in. I suspect that this will be a habit I kick at the end of the this subscription.

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Jeff Morgan
Prescott, AZ
Wile E. Coyote School of Telescope Making

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