Welcome

The following are answers to the most frequently asked questions about this website and its contents.

What blogging software did you use?

None. The entire site is driven by PHP scripts that dynamically create the HTML pages based on selections made by the user. The content of the website is stored in a database and extracted when needed by the PHP scripts. If you are not into writing your own scripts, look at the free blogging software Wordpress.

What database are you using?

The website content is stored in a MySQL database. The MySQL server software is open-source, available for a variety of platforms (Windows, Linux, Mac OS, Solaris, BSD), and supported by a large number of hosting companies. The database schema is my own creation and designed to support the information contained in my observation logs.

Can I use some of your website in my own work?

Please read the copyright notice regarding use of the contents of this website. You are allowed to use content from this site for your own personal use. Any commercial use is prohibited without prior written permission.

Where do you host your site?

I use MyHosting.com to provide access to the Internet version of my observing log. MyHosting.com has both Linux and Windows server accounts.

Can you tell me what telescope to buy?

Probably not. I own several telescopes and each one has its own merits and uses. The best suggestion is to find a local astronomy club and see when they have public meetings or viewing events. Attend some of these events and look through as many telescopes as you can, talk to the owners about their pros and cons, determine what your financial and physical limits are (the really big scopes can be really heavy and really expensive) and then make an informed decision as to what the best telescope is for you. The ideal telescope is one that you will want to setup in the backyard every time the sky is clear.