By Stuart J. Goldman With the July issue, the product reviews in have been slightly refashioned. Discussion of astronomical equipment is one of the main categories of chatter on online forums, such as the sci.astro.amateur newsgroup. It's become a sad game for us editors, wondering who will be the first to complain about a review who hasn't even read it yet. The flames of discontent are fanned by groundless provocations.
Tempers usually abate once people stow their feelings and start actually discussing the facts.
Hang around on the message boards long enough and you'll learn who is interested in having meaningful discussions and who would rather spread misinformation and lead people to make knee-jerk reactions to falsehoods. The people in the latter category then become, depending on your inclination, a source of entertainment or ire. Even with our new Test Report emphasis, some people will still want more. Be sure to check out his survey form for the book's next edition. Boston TV meteorologist Todd Gross offers evaluations of the numerous astronomical items he's used.