[ATM] List format, small achromats

[Mike Lockwood <melockwo@uiuc.edu>]

Hi,

Vladimir Galogaza wrote:
>>some will  prefer the older more traditional mailing 
>>lists while others the new forums, 

I think that ATM list members have chosen to remain on the list 
exactly because they are familiar with the format, and because like 
its qualities (text-only, etc).  It would seem to me that changing it 
significantly could be troubling to many.

> I am member of ATM list and Interferometry forum.
> I see no difference. Both come to me in the same way
> without any additional effort from my side.

The Interferometry group has fewer messages than the ATM list. 
Additionally, you must rely on Yahoo's servers (which to not always 
cooperate).  Personally I find the user interface a bit clumsy, and I 
prefer text.

The advantage is that photos are easily shared, so long as the quota 
is not exceeded.

> I do not prefer diversification into separate interest groups.

Agreed.  That is another advantage of the current list - a wide 
variety of topics are discussed, and the experience of the list 
members spans many topics.

> I am for backward compatibility. All advantages of the atm list
> should be retained, not  degraded, no disadvantages for anybody,
> and  if the list can be even better, do it. Is this possible?

Agreed, but I am not sure this is possible.  We have a unique list 
culture, and personally I enjoy it.  Also, people have to do a bit 
looking for the list to get on it, and I think that is a good 
"pre-filter" - we get those who are taking some time at searching out 
sources of info on telescope making, rather than just looking for a 
Yahoo group to join to get some information and then leave.

Yahoo groups are a bit narrow, and there are many to look at, from ATM 
Free to Big Dob, Binewt, Make Your Own Telescope, Interferometry, and 
many more that I'm not mentioning.  It is work to view them all, and 
work to go through all the emails from them if you subscribe to all.

I think the one thing we really miss, compared to Yahoo groups, is 
more criticism of commercially made telescopes, including dobs.  That 
info can be useful.

In general, the ATM list is a one-stop shop of knowledge (especially 
if you search the archives!), and feels more like a family to me. 
Members have been around much longer than Yahoo groups has existed, 
and I'd prefer not to lose this "feel".  I like the list the way it is 
- it is a most efficient means of exchanging ideas.

By the way, Surplus Shed has some new small achromats on its "New This 
Week" page.  They might be suitable for low-power telescopes to aid 
with Foucault testing.  One is 12.5mm in diameter, with a 30mm focal 
length, so with a 10mm eyepiece that's a very useful 3X.

	Mike L.

_______________________________________________
ATM mailing list http://www.atmlist.net/