[SJAAboard] Thoughts on requirements for scopes larger than 10"

[Mark Wagner]

> It sounds like you believe the loaner scopes should be similar to what someone could buy.

Clearly.  Is there any scope in the SJAA inventory that is not of a design similar to what someone
could buy?

>  This gets back to the purpose of the loaner program.

I agree.  I think the disposition of the Albert scope is the first order of business, then
defining the purpose of the program in order to get past the issue.  This has been an issue for
quite some time, as I recall.

> Are we running a "try before you buy" program?  If so, maybe we
> should get a cut.

I do not support your suggestion, we should not be "pimpin" telescopes!  I think part of the
program's purpose is precisely to allow would be buyers to try scopes out, before plunking down
their money.  I've suggested to numerous people I've met that they do exactly that, join the SJAA
for a meager $20, and use the loaner scope program in order to determine what type of scope best
fits their needs, in order to not buy something they might later regret.  Is there a problem
serving the astronomy community that way?  I think it is a great value and service.

And, BTW, Albert is a commercial manufacturer, ask him.  Wouldn't that scope also fall under the
"try before you buy" criterion as well?  Would you like to ask Albert for a cut? ;-)

> Personally, I don't care if a loaner scope is
> something you'd see in the stores or not--the loaner program
> shouldn't be some sort of marketing effort.  What does it matter
> if it's a custom-built or homemade scope?  As long as it's good.

To me, it is as long as it fits within the goals of the program, which at this point I feel is
undefined.

But, in a big picture, from *my* perspective, the particular scope we're discussing would not fall
within *my* loaner scope parameters any more then a 6" Astrophysics, 12" RC, or 90mm Coronado. 
There are options out there that more completely meet (what I see) as the purpose of the loaner
program.

So, let's dispose of the Albert scope, and then debate the purpose of the program and come to an
agreement.  That will help  make future decisions about the program easier.

Mark