[sac-board] FAQ

All,
A few days ago, the idea of posting a FAQ on the website was proposed. I've 
taken the liberty of drawing up a preliminary version. I'll copy it here, but 
since I can't send an attachment to the list, I have the file in word format 
for those who may want it. Please look it over and see if there is anything I 
missed or any suggestions. I tried think of all the questions I've been asked 
over the years.

Here it is:

FAQ

Q)  Who Can Join SAC?
A)      SAC membership is open to anyone with an interest in astronomy. From 
beginner to expert all are welcome. 

Q)  Do I need to own a Telescope to be a member?
A)  No. Although many members own telescopes, it is not a requirement to 
join. In fact if you are a beginner, not owning a telescope can be an 
advantage. 
You can attend a few star parties and check out different types of scopes (our 
members are always willing to let you take a look and answer questions) to 
help you determine what will best suit your needs & budget.

Q)  How much is membership?
A)  Dues are $28.00 per year for individuals and $42.00 for family 
memberships. All memberships expire in December, so if you're a new member, we 
pro-rate 
your first years dues on a quarterly schedule.

Q)  What do you do at Club meetings?
A)  Our general meetings usually last about 2 ½ hours. During the first part 
of the meeting, we take care of club business and our we have a "Show & Tell" 
where our members are free to display their latest astronomical achievements. 
After a short break, we have a guest speaker give a talk on a subject of 
interest. Our proximity to major observatories & universities renown for their 
astronomical research enables us to get a wide variety of interesting speakers. 

Q)  I've never been under a dark sky, is it ok if I come to a SAC star party 
before I join?
A)  Yes, but we do recommend that you attend a meeting first. We have several 
sites we observe from, the closet of which is an hours drive from central 
Phoenix, so if you do wish to join us, please contact a board member to find 
out 
where we are going and to get directions. Also be aware of the weather. If it 
looks iffy, please check to see if we're going. 

Q)  I've heard that beginners should start with Binoculars. Can you really 
see anything with them?
A)  Yes, you can see a lot with a good pair of binoculars. They are easy to 
use, offer a wide field of view (which make finding things easier) and are 
affordable. A good pair of 7x50 binoculars can be had for under $150.00 and 
will 
help you learn the sky while showing you some very nice objects. Most 
experienced observers still keep a pair of bino's handy, even if they own a 
sophisticated telescope. 

Q)  I'm new to Astronomy. What do I look at?
A)  There are many objects in the sky a beginner can find easily and observe. 
Most beginners start out by observing solar system objects, namely the moon & 
planets. They are easy to find and can offer great detail, even in small 
instruments. There are also many Deep Sky Objects (DSO's) that are bright 
enough t 
be seen with the naked eye from dark locations. Most beginning observers will 
start their Deep Sky Observing with the Messier catalogue. This is a 
catalogue of 110 objects first catalogued by French Astronomer Charles Messier 
in the 
late 18th century. The messier catalogue includes some of the finest DSO's to 
be seen.  We have several different observing programs for those interested in 
keeping track of their observations. The programs are geared toward both the 
novice & experienced observer alike. Upon completion of the program, the 
observer is awarded a plaque to commemorate the achievement.  

Q)  I'm the parent of a child who has expressed an interest in astronomy. Do 
you have school-age members?
A)  Currently, our younger members are part of family memberships. While we 
don't currently have any school-age individual members, this does not mean they 
are not welcome. Bear in mind our star parties are a ways out of town so a 
youngster wishing to attend would need to arrange transportation to and from 
the 
observing site. Also, young folk should be mature enough to behave 
responsibly while at the site. We believe that astronomy is a great family 
activity and 
encourage family membership. It is a great way to spend some quality time with 
your kids, while enjoying the beauty of the night sky.
 

Rick Tejera
Editor SACnews
Saguaro Astronomy Club
Phoenix, Arizona
SaguaroAstro@xxxxxxx
www.saguaroastro.org

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