pianorealm

Well,.......that makes things very clear....THANK YOU.  It puts everything I need to know into a concise...easily understandable post. Maybe it should be a sticky?

Hi.

Very new to SGL but have so far been really pleased with the welcome, the help and support I've received. Thank you.

It's also great to see how no one accepts that there is a daft, silly or stupid question. Everyone seems to remember where they started, even the most experienced members.

If I have one comment or question, this is it:

To be able to browse the classified section new members must have at least 50 posts. The thing is, whenever I've been on other forums on any subject, I've always tried to browse or search for an answer before I post a question.

In fact some forums, and I'm not talking astronomy here, would ask you to do this first. In some cases, if you ask a question a typical reply might be............. 'search the threads'.

OK.....so my point is....yep...getting there eventually: phew.....

When people first start out in this fascinating hobby, they are probably most at need of reasonably priced second hand equipment. Equipment sold by fellow astronomers through a safer, mutual media. Ie; They are least likely 'to get ripped off'.

I realise 50 posts isn't a huge number....I myself do have lot's of questions to ask. However I would love to be able to browse the ads now.....rather than buy elsewhere.

I think I understand the reasoning behind this rule...is it to stop scamming etc? But I just think people may post questions for the sake of getting up to 50 posts.

Please understand, this is not a criticism in any way, merely an observations as a new member. I'm sure I probably don't see the 'bigger picture'.

I suppose it speaks volumes the fact that this site is actually asking for the opinions of newcomers...THANK YOU.

Howard