Is it just a Hobby?

[Pauly]

Or is it something more? I know for some it can be an obssesion, but I feel the word 'Hobby' undersells what we do? It obviously isn't a sport. I suppose it could be a science, but that would imply we are all scientists and I'm far too much of a duffer for that particular appelation. So what is it?

[Keithp]

satisfaction

[mark7331]

And in keeping with the dog icon theme...

I think it's a passion, perhaps a way of life.

[Pauly]

Woof!

[mark7331]

LOL

[WayBig]

What's with all the dogs, did I miss some in joke?

[Astro_Baby]

I see it as someting other than shoes, handbags and makeup I can spend my money on

[Euan]

It's not just a hobby it's an obsession

[Whippy]

For me it's a hobby simply because if I didn't enjoy it then I wouldn't do it. An obsession/way of life etc etc implies that it's something you do regardless of enjoyment or not IMO.

Tony..

[gary1968]

When the sky clears its an 'Obsession' for me....... But they dont clear often enough IMO.

Gary

[Thomas]

Astronomy is beyond doubt a science. However, the purpose for which it is studied or practised, ( whether for research, education, exhibition or personal interest ) and the competency ( or lack thereof ) of the student or practitioner, are an entirely different matter.

[NGC 1502]

It's obsessive compulsive disorder

If it's clear I've just gotta be out there !!

Cheers, Ed.

[bish]

It is a hobby, but as mentioned above more of an obsession when the sky clears and you are compelled to go out however cold or late it may be.

[Catanonia]

mmmm, perhaps a little more for me, a passion.

Worst still, trying to recoup some money with my website, how sad eh

[barkis]

Or is it something more? I know for some it can be an obssesion, but I feel the word 'Hobby' undersells what we do? It obviously isn't a sport. I suppose it could be a science, but that would imply we are all scientists and I'm far too much of a duffer for that particular appelation. So what is it?

No hobby, for most of us it's a way of life

Ron.

[Talitha]

I tend to consider it an 'interest'... one of many.

[brantuk]

I reckon it's a "scientific hobby" and an "interesting/fun social activity". It's a great way to spend money you haven't got - and a huge investment for a relatively short amount of time. It's as passionate as a new car or dishwasher (depending on gender), and as obsessive as chocolate eclairs. If you didn't have a life before - it'll make you think you've got one now. Don't you just love it? lol

[Nick P]

Its exploration!

[ollypenrice]

I'm allergic to the word 'hobby.' I have always loathed it for some reason. Is it because it reduces the activity some to complacent little pottering away that you do when doing something real like wash up or go to work?

For me my hobbies (YUK!!) are the most real things that I do. They are passions.

Lets hear it, PASSIONS!!!

Oh that feels better!

Olly

[Space Beagle]

My Beagle likes being out in the garden at night too..!!

Just to get the 'Dog thing' going again..!

Mind you I think I saw a Cat just now..eekk!

Doc

[Space Beagle]

Oh, and it's much more than just a hobby, I don't like that word either!

Doc

[Beulah]

With all of my interests, I am quite happy to be called by a much-misunderstood word; an amateur. (which is a term used alongside the word "Hobby")

The original meaning comes from such a passion in partaking in an interest that renumeration seems a little base by comparision.

For that reason, I am a work-to-live person.

[glowjet]

Astronomy is pursuing a scientific interest that causes large holes to appear in your pockets.

john.

[JamesM]

I agree with Olly and others that for many (myself included) this subject represents a passion most definitely!!!! Picking up Mel's comments, the money that can be spent certainly prevents me from buying high heeled shoes, make up and bags and having just checked this with my other half.....it's probably for the best!!!!!!

The real big joy about this passion is that it so wide ranging, all of which can be enjoyed at so many levels, by all age groups, by both male and female around the world! Yet for all that, how difficult is it to find a local astronomy shop near to where you live? Thank goodness for the internet

James

[AstroTiger]

Its an obsession for me too i think, a way of life now.

you know your hooked when you dream of events you've missed like the occultation of the Peilades (spelling!)

Astronomy is just that, my wife calls it my second marriage.

Some guys worship football, others cars or electricals. Me its the stars.

Simple.