Really, really dumb astronomy q/a
conp...@voyager.net
regular feature in the new year...really, really dumb astronomy
questions and their answers. I am not well educated in astronomy, so
would appreciate any help you folks could provide. I'll be grateful
for any really dumb astronomy questions you've heard or been askd, or
even asked yourselves when first getting started, and the correct or
educating answers to them.
Thanks.
Cordially,
Dennis
Luke
<conp...@voyager.net> wrote in message
news:3dc044d9$0$17650$272e...@news.execpc.com...
Q: Why is it that when I look through my newtownian telescope, all I see is
my eye?
A: You have to insert an eyepiece in the focuser.
(True story)
Luke
Curtis Croulet
chase away newcomers, then this is a good way to do it!
--
Curtis Croulet
Temecula, California
33° 27' 59"N, 117° 05' 53"W
JohnP.
a) "You Rain Us" (Wrong)
b) "Urine Us" (Wrong)
c) "Your Scrotum" (Wrong ... from Futurama 3000 episode)
d) "OOO RON OOS" (Correct ... if people look at you funny say "...from
the Greek" and change the subject.)
Modoctor2002
people questions at first, fearing they might appear ignorant, and so would
potentially learn alot from this.......sort of like an "astronomy for dummies"
deal.
Edward
:o)
<conp...@voyager.net> wrote in message
news:3dc044d9$0$17650$272e...@news.execpc.com...
Brian Tung
> And what is the point of this? If you want to insult and
> chase away newcomers, then this is a good way to do it!
I think it is uncharitable to call them "Really, Really Dumb Astronomy
Questions," but on the other hand, I think it *is* worthwhile to print
them out. People really ask them, and it only sounds dumb after you
know the answer.
For example, the question about "Why do I only see my eyeball when I
look into my Newtonian telescope?" sounds dumb only because putting an
eyepiece into a telescope is second nature to most of us. An eyepiece
is just a magnifying glass, and normally, you can see something without
using a magnifying glass--adding the magnifying glass just makes it
bigger. So it's kind of reasonable that a telescope ought to present
some kind of view even without the eyepiece in there. It's even true,
after a fashion, since there is a real image formed by the telescope,
but if you peer into the focuser, you are too close to it to see it,
and even if you look from further back, you probably still won't see it
unless you know exactly what to look for.
Brian Tung <br...@isi.edu>
The Astronomy Corner at http://astro.isi.edu/
Unofficial C5+ Home Page at http://astro.isi.edu/c5plus/
The PleiadAtlas Home Page at http://astro.isi.edu/pleiadatlas/
My Own Personal FAQ (SAA) at http://astro.isi.edu/reference/faq.txt
Gareth Slee
I like this idea.
If there's a good response, I'll list the questions (and answers) on the
Mugshots site.
New address - http://www.lapie.com
--
Gareth Slee
If cats had an opposable thumb and could hold a screwdriver, we'd all be
doomed
Marty
> to insult and chase away newcomers,
> then this is a good way to do it!
I can see the point here, but the idea could be entertaining and
educational if handled right. Giving the correct answer is the first
step... Mentioning only the question would appear more as simple
meanness. Possibly someone could come up with a humorous, yet more
"gentle" title?
Marty
Mike Simmons
>
> Curtis Croulet wrote:
> > And what is the point of this? If you want to insult and
> > chase away newcomers, then this is a good way to do it!
>
> I think it is uncharitable to call them "Really, Really Dumb Astronomy
> Questions," but on the other hand, I think it *is* worthwhile to print
> them out. People really ask them, and it only sounds dumb after you
> know the answer.
I agree on both counts -- good idea, bad name for it. Astronomy for
Dummies would be fine, or Everything You Wanted To Know About Astronomy
But Were Afraid To Ask or something. But it's a great idea.
Mike Simmons
Dave Deming
long ago arrived at an inescapable conclusion: There are no dumb or
stupid questions. There are dumb or stupid people who don't ask
questions concerning things they don't understand. A question is a
request for information, hence, knowledge. Therefore, it can't be dumb
or stupid.
Dave
conp...@voyager.net
wrote:
Jeez, Curtis, lighten up; go take a midol and a cuppa decaf. And, stay
away from the Christmas gifts, trees, and lights down in Whoville!!
Cheerio,
Dennis
conp...@voyager.net
<garet...@ntlworld.com> wrote:
>
><conp...@voyager.net> wrote in message
>news:3dc044d9$0$17650$272e...@news.execpc.com...
>> I edit the newsletter for an astronomy club. I'd like to begin a new
>> regular feature in the new year...really, really dumb astronomy
>> questions and their answers. I am not well educated in astronomy, so
>> would appreciate any help you folks could provide. I'll be grateful
>> for any really dumb astronomy questions you've heard or been askd, or
>> even asked yourselves when first getting started, and the correct or
>> educating answers to them.
>>
>> Thanks.
>>
>> Cordially,
>>
>> Dennis
>
>
>I like this idea.
>
>If there's a good response, I'll list the questions (and answers) on the
>Mugshots site.
>New address - http://www.lapie.com
I've just bookmarked your site (so that's what Rod looks like!). Will
you let us know if you do the list?
Thanks,
Dennis
PZeller66
>stupid questions. There are dumb or stupid people who don't ask
>questions concerning things they don't understand. A question is a
>request for information, hence, knowledge. Therefore, it can't be dumb or
stupid.
Dave, thank you for hitting the nail on the head! Half the reason people
don't ask questions is out of fear of being thought of as stupid. I've repeated
this to those I've been assigned to supervise at my job for the past year, and
answered every question as honestly as I can, no matter how offbeat the
question might seem. I've seen some amazing results! It's amazing the skills
people can learn, when they're not afraid to learn them.
The idea is great. I do agree with a title change to make it seem a little
more user friendly. But by all means, go for it.
Another true story, "Next time you're out with that telescope can you show me
Scorpio? Thats my sign." (Sadly, we were dating at the time. Not for long
though.)
SkySea
down?". That threw me for a loop.
At first, I thought the question referred to why the whole planet wasn't
"falling" out of the field of view. Upon further probing, it turns out the
question might better have been posed (and understood) as, "Why don't the rings
collapse into the planet?"
In about 1982, a foreign student in chemistry pulled me aside and quietly asked
me if the adventures of Captain Kirk were really true. Turns out the housemates
were trying to convince him the shows were dramatizations of the real ship's
logs.
---------
Dale Gombert ( Sky...@aol.com )
122.38W, 47.58N, W. Seattle, WA, USA
http://flavorj.com/~skysea (stereo, scenic, and astro photos)
chrisachroisdk
Q. Why does someone un-deducated in astronomy edit an astronomy newsletter?
A? Because they wanted to do the brain surgery newsletter, but it was taken?
Sorry, just my wierd sense of humour.<g>
Chris.B
HAVRILIAK
>Dummies would be fine, or Everything You
I have the copy of that book. It doesent have anything in it
conp...@voyager.net
wrote:
>And what is the point of this? If you want to insult and
>chase away newcomers, then this is a good way to do it!
How about this: Really, really naive or new to astronomy questions?
Dennis
conp...@voyager.net
Because I am a masterful copy editor who enjoys the art and science of
astronomy, and am not pretentious enough to claim I know all there is
to know about it.
Dennis
Curtis Croulet
questions (and by implication the askers) are going to be
held up to ridicule. If this was to be couched as "common
questions" or "beginner's questions," then that would be OK.
Curtis Croulet
how many of your members stick around. When the older
members realize what's happening, they'll be looking for a
new editor.
John Persons
<conp...@voyager.net> wrote in message
news:3dc1348f$0$1451$272e...@news.execpc.com...
But you have to admit that Chris's answer was funnier!
JP
Robert A. Knop Jr.
When showing somebody the moon, inevitably somebody asks if they can see
the lunar module thorugh the telescope.
The short answer only takes two letters :) A longer answer would
probably involve an analogy to grains of sand and miles or something
like that.
-Rob
conp...@voyager.net
wrote:
>Tell you what, Mr. Editor. You run this column and then see
>how many of your members stick around. When the older
>members realize what's happening, they'll be looking for a
>new editor.
Jeez, Curt baby, you are a pretentious little twerp, aren't you!
Cheerio
Dennis
mjd
them.
But for the purpose of this article, I'd probably call it something
like
"Newbie questions we all love".
I was at a star party to view the Leonids last year. Unfortunately
those of us in Michgan were socked in with the worst fog in a decade.
I shined my laser collimator up into the sky. It went about 10 feet.
I had a woman ask me (and I quote). "Does this fog mean we're not
going to see the asteroids".
My brain answered; We'll since asteroids can be several miles across
and they travel at about 15,000 miles an hour and we can now see about
10 feet, we are in
BIG, BIG trouble if we do see one!
My mouth answered; I don't think this fog is going to lift at all.
I'm pretty sure we won't be seeing the meteorites tonight. Maybe she
caught the subtle correction, maybe she didn't. At any rate that was
a pretty dumb question. Not because of the terminology mistake, but
because we were in pea soup.
mjd
conp...@voyager.net wrote in message news:<3dc085af$0$17651$272e...@news.execpc.com>...
Bill Foley
constellation pictures I had taken using a 35mm camera piggy-back on an EQ
reflector. I was asked if I used a flash for the pictures. But the person
immediately realized that would not be the case, and corrected themselves.
Clear, Dark, Steady Skies!
(And considerate neighbors!!!)
Curtis Croulet
and tell us how it went. Only, use your real name next
time.
Sean Golden
conp...@voyager.net wrote:
But you're pretentious enough to call yourself a masterful copy editor?
Actually I think it's fine for a non-astronomer to be an editor of an
astronomy newsletter. I would consider it a learning opportunity if I
were in your shoes. But then I would be a little more willing to listen
to the advice of real amateur astronomers, including, perhaps
especially, the curmudgeonly ones.
You asked for advice, be willing to listen to it.
If you want to run a column on common astronomical misconceptions, then
call it that, don't insult the people you are trying to reach, treat it
as an opportunity to teach, not to ridicule.
That's what people are trying to tell you. Sounds like good advice,
advice a masterful editor would listen to.
-sdg
SimonP
> I edit the newsletter for an astronomy club. I'd like to begin a new
> regular feature in the new year...really, really dumb astronomy
> questions and their answers. I am not well educated in astronomy, so
> would appreciate any help you folks could provide. I'll be grateful
> for any really dumb astronomy questions you've heard or been askd, or
> even asked yourselves when first getting started, and the correct or
> educating answers to them.
>
>
> Cordially,
>
> Dennis
Dennis,
I agree with general sentiment of making the title newbie friendly.
No specific "dumb" questions though I do find this site useful for
basic info...
http://www.zoomwhales.com/subjects/astronomy/
When you've put you first edition together stick on the net and post a
link, I for one would be interested.
Best
Simon
51:31N 0:38W
http://www.maidenhead.astronomical.society.care4free.net/
http://www.popastro.com/home.htm
chrisachroisdk
> <conp...@voyager.net> wrote in message
> news:3dc1348f$0$1451$272e...@news.execpc.com...
> > On 31 Oct 2002 01:49:58 -0800, chr...@mail.dk (chrisachroisdk) wrote
> newsletter?
> > >A? Because they wanted to do the brain surgery newsletter, but it was
> taken?
> > >
> > > Sorry, just my wierd sense of humour.<g>
> > >
> > > Chris.B
> >
> > Because I am a masterful copy editor who enjoys the art and science of
> > astronomy, and am not pretentious enough to claim I know all there is
> > to know about it.
> >
> > Dennis
>
> But you have to admit that Chris's answer was funnier!
>
> JP
Thanks JP... Dennis, I hope your spelling and punctuation are
stronger than your sense of humour. I was once "editor" of a monthly
astro society newsletter (too long ago to remember the details now,
but involved a borrowed manual typewriter and stencils) and I used to
get great laughs (from readers) for my errors. Trying to get something
from members to put in "the magazine" was not so much fun. Talk about;
"getting blood out of a stone"! If you start from the premise, that
everybody is criticisng you. Then you've failed before you begin.
Lighten up Dennis. I insist!
Chris.B
conp...@voyager.net
wrote:
>It's your newsletter. Go for it. Come back in six months
>and tell us how it went. Only, use your real name next
>time.
See what I mean about your pretentiousness and pomposity!! Why would
you assume I wouldn't use my real name? Remember what your third grade
teacher told you (last semester); never assume, it makes an "Ass of U
and you."
Cheerio,
Dennis
conp...@voyager.net
<seang...@earthlink.net> wrote:
>In article <3dc1348f$0$1451$272e...@news.execpc.com>,
> conp...@voyager.net wrote:
>
>> On 31 Oct 2002 01:49:58 -0800, chr...@mail.dk (chrisachroisdk) wrote:
>>
>> >
>> >Q. Why does someone un-deducated in astronomy edit an astronomy newsletter?
>> >A? Because they wanted to do the brain surgery newsletter, but it was taken?
>> >
>> > Sorry, just my wierd sense of humour.<g>
>> >
>> > Chris.B
>>
>> Because I am a masterful copy editor who enjoys the art and science of
>> astronomy, and am not pretentious enough to claim I know all there is
>> to know about it.
>>
>> Dennis
>
>But you're pretentious enough to call yourself a masterful copy editor?
It's not pretention if it's accurate, and it is.
>
>Actually I think it's fine for a non-astronomer to be an editor of an
>astronomy newsletter. I would consider it a learning opportunity if I
>were in your shoes. But then I would be a little more willing to listen
>to the advice of real amateur astronomers, including, perhaps
>especially, the curmudgeonly ones.
>
>You asked for advice, be willing to listen to it.
>
>If you want to run a column on common astronomical misconceptions, then
>call it that, don't insult the people you are trying to reach, treat it
>as an opportunity to teach, not to ridicule.
>
>That's what people are trying to tell you. Sounds like good advice,
>advice a masterful editor would listen to.
>
>-sdg
Now, where did you get the notion I wouldn't listen to the advice? Not
in my posts to this group on this topic. You should recall the advice
I gave another curmudgeon in this thread: never assume, it makes and
as of "You and U."
Cheerio,
Dennis
conp...@voyager.net
I RESIST such blandishments, and urge all to DESIST in their attempts
to ASSIST me in selecting a proper title for this feature. BTW,I've
done the newsletter for more than three yers, this was just to be a
new feature.
Cheerio,
Dennis
>
> Chris.B
Curtis Croulet
At least you know how to spell them. "Dennis" may be your
real given name, but you probably have a surname, too. Oh,
and grow up, too.
conp...@voyager.net
wrote:
>> See what I mean about your pretentiousness and pomposity!!
>
>At least you know how to spell them. "Dennis" may be your
>real given name, but you probably have a surname, too. Oh,
>and grow up, too.
Ah ha; so you've noticed I do not suffer boring fools gladly! You are
becoming boring; go away, go far away, and do not soil our earth
again.
Cheerio,
Dennis
Bill Foley
>you assume I wouldn't use my real name? Remember what your third grade
>teacher told you (last semester); never assume, it makes an "Ass of U
>and you."
And watch our for certain vining plants:
It makes a leg of U and me.
Bill Foley
assholes, shitheads, and poopballs.
QED
Mick Wilson
year, and a group of us physics majors doing our astronomy prac
photographing the Crab nebula through the university refractor. One of
the physics types was lucky enough to have his girlfriend along that
night - alas, an environmental science major who just never quite
latched on to how we were able to be taming photos at night without a
flash!....
sigh
Jon Isaacs
Such a boring and overworked cliche.... Possibly you could think up something
original. <g>
Jon Isaacs
conp...@voyager.net
wrote:
>I personally believe that all those who call each other disparaging names are
>assholes, shitheads, and poopballs.
Poopballs!?!? Poopballs?!?! Now you've done it...you've insulted
Little Curt. You'd better apologize right now, or he'll get really mad
and question if Bill Foley is your real name.
Cheerio
dennis
Curtis Croulet
has long been a valued member of this forum, and I make a
point of reading his posts.
chrisachroisdk
> >> Because I am a masterful copy editor who enjoys the art and science of
> >> astronomy, and am not pretentious enough to claim I know all there is
> >> to know about it.
> >>
> Now, where did you get the notion (THAT)I wouldn't listen to the advice? Not
> in my posts to this group(,) on this topic. You should recall the advice
> I gave another curmudgeon in this thread: (N)ever assume, it makes an(d?)
> as(SE) (OUT) of "You and U."
>
> Cheerio,
>
> Dennis
Hi "Cheerio" Dennis,
Why are you trolling here? When you should be
editing your political newsletters? Your only easily identifiable
contribution to s.a.a (before this thread) was to ask where the
"Double double" is. Your quick temper and flair for the melodramatic,
are rather better known in other (non-astronomical) circles. Why us?
Why now?
"Cheerio" for now,
Chris.B
PS I have corrected (in brackets)your last message, above. I do hope
that The Great Copy Editor, is not too pretentious, to recognise the
truth? He does not write well, when "inflamed". Or is this just
another assumption? Whatever.
conp...@voyager.net
wrote:
>Bill Foley doesn't have to apologize to me for anything. He
>has long been a valued member of this forum, and I make a
>point of reading his posts.
Okay, then Poopball it is!
Cheerio,
Dennis
conp...@voyager.net
I wondered how long it would take. You are so-o-o easy, Chris and the
others; just a few days to complete my experiment, and root out some
of the pretentious and pompous among you who apparently feel Little
Curt is incapable of fighting his own Internet tussles.
I realize the P. and P. among you are too short for this conversation,
but ponder your silliness that allowed your silliness to get the
better of you, when all I politely requested was some info for a
little newsletter. My, my, my, you P. and P. guys and gals are fun!
Cheerio,
Dennis
conp...@voyager.net
>conp...@voyager.net wrote in message news:<3dc2804b$0$17654$272e...@news.execpc.com>...
>
>> >> Because I am a masterful copy editor who enjoys the art and science of
>> >> astronomy, and am not pretentious enough to claim I know all there is
>> >> to know about it.
>> >>
>> Now, where did you get the notion (THAT)I wouldn't listen to the advice? Not
>> in my posts to this group(,) on this topic. You should recall the advice
>> I gave another curmudgeon in this thread: (N)ever assume, it makes an(d?)
>> as(SE) (OUT) of "You and U."
Chris:
Your "corrections" would result in an over-written, pedantic style,
not suitable for effective communications; read Strunk and White
sometime.
Read on, below.
>> Cheerio,
>>
>> Dennis
>
> Hi "Cheerio" Dennis,
> Why are you trolling here? When you should be
>editing your political newsletters?
Two things: I'm not a troll when treated in a pretentious and pompous
manner, I'm the Billy Goat Gruff; second, that's not a complete
sentence up there that starts with "When you." Some here will say
you're the one who needs an editor.
Look farther down this message; I'll help you some more.
Your only easily identifiable
>contribution to s.a.a (before this thread) was to ask where the
>"Double double" is. Your quick temper and flair for the melodramatic,
>are rather better known in other (non-astronomical) circles. Why us?
>Why now?
>
> "Cheerio" for now,
Needs a comma before the end quotation mark in "Cheerio."
> Chris.B
>
> PS I have
Needs a comma or colon between "PS" and "I."
corrected (in brackets)your last message, above. I do hope
>that The Great Copy Editor, is not too pretentious, to
There are two errors here; there should be no comma between "editor"
and "is" or "pretentious" and "to."
recognise the
>truth? He does not write well, when "inflamed".
You made two errors in that statement, as well. There is no comma
between "well" and "when," and the period goes before the end
quotation mark.
I realize you were writing in a stream-of-consciousness style, and for
that I don't condemn, merely correct. Don't worry; you'll learn, if
you stick with it.
Cheerio,
Dennis
\
>another assumption? Whatever.
Curtis Croulet
quote the message), therefore I don't believe Bill's remark
applies to me. But, I am curious -- are your posts here
typical of what you put in your newsletters?
Barry Gloger
> I edit the newsletter for an astronomy club. I'd like to begin a new
> regular feature in the new year...really, really dumb astronomy
> questions and their answers.
> Dennis
We have a saying in our Asronomy Club that the only dumb question is
one that you didn't ask. And that's the way it should be.
--
Barry Gloger
Amateur Astronomer
Member - AOS
Telescopaholic
Telescope Owners Anonymous
bigo...@aol.com
Sean Golden
conp...@voyager.net wrote:
>
> Now, where did you get the notion I wouldn't listen to the advice? Not
> in my posts to this group on this topic. You should recall the advice
> I gave another curmudgeon in this thread: never assume, it makes and
> as of "You and U."
>
> Cheerio,
>
> Dennis
Whew, after reading the rest of your posts, I get the "notion" that you
don't listen to anything, period.
-sdg
chrisachroisdk
>
> I wondered how long it would take. You are so-o-o easy, Chris and the
> others; just a few days to complete my experiment, and root out some
> of the pretentious and pompous among you who apparently feel Little
> Curt is incapable of fighting his own Internet tussles.
>
> I realize the P. and P. among you are too short for this conversation,
> but ponder your silliness that allowed your silliness to get the
> better of you, when all I politely requested was some info for a
> little newsletter. My, my, my, you P. and P. guys and gals are fun!
>
> Cheerio,
> Dennis
Hello again Dennis,
If I end my days in abject poverty, sharing a
cardboard box with the hungry rats. I will remember and be grateful,
that I am not YOU.
If decades go by without a decent meal from the garbage cans and I am
totally shunned by society. I will remember and be happy, that I am
not YOU.
If I end my days, screaming from the torture of endless, untreatable
pain. I will remember and be delighted, that I am not YOU.
If I end my days, strapped to a hospital bed, dribbling and babbling
incoherently at the horrible, unending nightmares. I shall remember
and be ecstatic, that I am not YOU.
If my diseased skin sloughs off, to reveal my crumling bones and my
living eyes are eaten out of their sockets by the worms and beetles. I
shall remember and be euphoric, that I am not YOU.
Because, to actually be YOU, is worse than any nightmare, that I
could ever conceive of. You have my endless sympathy, grief and
sorrow, for your unimaginable plight.
Cheerio
Chris.B
conp...@voyager.net
>
>> but ponder your silliness that allowed your silliness to get the
Loved your little ad hominin attack, Chris...I'll share it with my
many unpretentious and non-presumptuous friends.
Cheerio,
Dennis
Jon Isaacs
>others; just a few days to complete my experiment, and root out some
>of the pretentious and pompous among you who apparently feel Little
>Curt is incapable of fighting his own Internet tussles.
>I realize the P. and P. among you are too short for this conversation,
>but ponder your silliness that allowed your silliness to get the
>better of you, when all I politely requested was some info for a
>little newsletter. My, my, my, you P. and P. guys and gals are fun!
Please put me on your list. I have seen nothing constructive from you yet.
You seem to enjoy playing games rather than actually accomplishing something.
You ask a question question with some politeness but after that your manners
seem to have deserted you.
While Curtis might have been more blunt than you can handle, he did have a
reasonable suggestion that you might have considered.
So, yeah. please, please, put me on your list. I count Curtis as a friend,
never met him but he has given me some good advice over the years.
This newsgroup is really a circle of friends, all good groups are I think. I
stick by my friends while recognizing their faults.
Jon Isaacs
Jon Isaacs
>typical of what you put in your newsletters?
>--
>Curtis Croulet
!!!!!!
Curtis hits the Bullseye once again, straight to the heart.
As they say in Tennis, "Point, set and match."
The game is over, Curtis is the winner.
Well done.
jon isaacs
Bill Foley
jests!
And best wishes to the "Dumb Question" dept. I think that we may be able to
prove that the old adage, "There are no dumb questions", is incorrect.
>has long been a valued member of this forum, and I make a
>point of reading his posts.
conp...@voyager.net
wrote:
>Nowhere have I called you a disparaging name (if so, then
>quote the message), therefore I don't believe Bill's remark
>applies to me. But, I am curious -- are your posts here
>typical of what you put in your newsletters?
Okay, let's review here, folks. A few days I posted a request on this
NG for some help with a light-hearted feature I may develop for a
local astronomy club's newsletter.
One of the first responses I received was from the presumptuous,
pretentious, and pompous Little Curt (the first PPP'er; does he really
think it necessary to impress us with his knowing his area's
terrestrial coordinates, or is that just pretence?). L.C. presumed to
assume the role of critic (thus making an ass of himself and no one
else), and pompously chastised me for my idea.
My response was a jibe aimed at deflating his self-importance; it
apparently worked by the way he got all worked up into high dudgeon.
Others rushed to his defense (do they know something we don't about
Little Curt's abilities?), and others posted ad hominem attacks on me
when they were never part of the original correspondence between
Little Curt and me.
I've had fun jousting with you PPP'ers (I do enjoy words, as you can
see if you really examine this posting), and appreciated you others
who responded to my original query with courtesy and bonhomie, but how
about we get back to exchanging ideas and experiences in amateur
astronomy, without the silliness of the PPP'ers.
As for you who helped, thanks; for you PPP'ers, thanks for nothin',
except the fun of seeing you spray self-righteous and sanctimonious
spittle all over this NG!
Cheerio,
Dennis
duh me
> > I edit the newsletter for an astronomy club. I'd like to begin a new
> > regular feature in the new year...really, really dumb astronomy
> > would appreciate any help you folks could provide. I'll be grateful
> > for any really dumb astronomy questions you've heard or been askd, or
> > even asked yourselves when first getting started, and the correct or
> > educating answers to them.
> >
> > Thanks.
> >
> > Cordially,
> >
> > Dennis
>
>
> If there's a good response, I'll list the questions (and answers) on the
> Mugshots site.
> New address - http://www.lapie.com
>
> --
> Gareth Slee
> If cats had an opposable thumb and could hold a screwdriver, we'd all be
> doomed
true event
i take my helios-1 to various musical events and a lady asked if she
could come back that night to look at the sun because it was too hot
right then..
cs
i don't have to mention the color of her hair.......
Al Hall
wrote:
>Really dumb question: "How do you pronounce Uranus?"
>
>a) "You Rain Us" (Wrong)
Which reminds me:
How is Star Trek's Enterprise like toilet paper?
Hint: Klingons...
Cathy
hehe thats such an old joke..
They both circle around Uranus and wipe out klingons.
The first time I heard it I was at the Glocca Morra Pub on the corner of
3th Ave and 23th St. NYC
The place had a great juke box. Stairway to the Stars, Bunny Berrigan's
'I cant get started', Johnny Hartman's 'For all we know', and a
newcomer on the music scene.. Bruce Springsteen's 10th Ave Freeze out.
Time to dust off the turntable.
Cathy
Curtis Croulet
"really, really dumb" questions, but I've done many public
and school star parties. The top four questions from the
public are:
(1) "How powerful is it?"
(2) "How far can you see?"
(3) "How much did it cost?"
(4) "Is that the Little Dipper?"
No. 2 really stopped me at first, but now I simply answer,
"A long way!" If M31 is visible, I'll point it out and
amaze them with how far they can see with their own eyes.
No. 3 is a bit tough to answer, since the scope I usually
take to public events is a combination of the OTA from one
and the mount from another (8-inch Cave Newt plus mount from
my 12.5-inch Cave Newt). I usually give the price of the
nearest basic commercial equivalent I can think of. Oddly,
this often brings gasps, and then I ask them about their
hobbies -- golf, boating, jet-skiing, winter sports, etc.
How much do those hobbies cost? Someone once told me that
two jet skis and a trailer can easily exceed $14K (this was
seven or eight years ago). $1K or $2K for a good telescope,
which can last a lifetime, doesn't sound so expensive in
that context.
conp...@voyager.net
<Cat...@nospamworldnet.att.net> wrote:
>Al Hall wrote:
>> On Wed, 30 Oct 2002 13:07:54 -0800, "JohnP." <splend...@yahoo.com>
>> wrote:
>>
>>
>>>Really dumb question: "How do you pronounce Uranus?"
>>>
>>>a) "You Rain Us" (Wrong)
>>
>>
>> Which reminds me:
>>
>> How is Star Trek's Enterprise like toilet paper?
>>
>> Hint: Klingons...
>>
>
>hehe thats such an old joke..
>They both circle around Uranus and wipe out klingons.
>
>The first time I heard it I was at the Glocca Morra Pub on the corner of
>3th Ave and 23th St. NYC
How are things in Glocca Morra?
Cheerio,
Dennis
conp...@voyager.net
Where the hell did you get the idea it was "game", a competition? I
was merely requesting information, and got dragged into something by
Little Curt, the PPP'er. Is he so shallow and weak he needs others to
fight his battles, or are you so arrogant as to think he can't defend
himself without your intervention? Either way does not mean a "loss"
to me...I wasn't competing for or against anything.
Cheerio
Dennis
>
>Well done.
>
>jon isaacs
>
chrisachroisdk
>
> Loved your little ad hominin attack, Chris...I'll share it with my
> many unpretentious and non-presumptuous friends.
>
> Cheerio, Dennis
the more reliable. Were it not a contradiction in terms. If your
(many) friends are indeed as you claim. Then they would surely find
you too obnoxious for words. Unless you count your fellow in-patients
as your friends? Perhaps they should raise the dosage again? You seem
to be deluding yourself that you have won some victory. When there
were no contestants except yourself. And we all know what to call
people who play with themselves!
I remain your presumptous and pretentious cretin, Chris.B
conp...@voyager.net
In the spirit of your message, I counted 15 grammar and punctuation
errors in your adhominem attack above. Pitifully cretinous!
>
> I remain your presumptous and pretentious cretin. Chris B.
"Cretin," your word, not mine! And, what makes you think I'd want you?
Cheerio,
Dennis
chrisachroisdk
> And we all know what to call people who play with themselves!
>
> errors in your adhominem attack above. Well done!
>
Dear Master B Cheerio,
Could it be that "Dennis" (your alter ego) also
suffers from paranoia? (He mentions; "spirit messages"). Is he also
unfamilar with, a once popular, form of polite ending to a letter?
You do keep repeating this "adhominem" thing, don't you? I know it's
fun to use "nice" words. But have you looked it up recently? It just
doesn't seem appropriate in this context, old chap. As in: Why should
I appeal to your feelings, rather than your reason? You have no reason
to appeal to Sir! For you must surely recognise the funny white coats
all around you by now? If you promise to be good, then the nurse might
give your dictionary back again. Then you can find another nice word
or two, to share with your fellow inmates. 'Delusions' is a nice word.
You might also try: 'Grandeur'. Together, they sound usefully pompous.
You may quickly grow to like them.
I remain your most obsequious servant Sir, Chris.B
conp...@voyager.net
You are so easy; mildy amusing, too. Tell ya what, let's call a truce
to all this, and get back to some astronomy; what d'ya say?
Cheerio,
Dennis
Al Hall
wrote:
>"really, really dumb" questions, but I've done many public
>and school star parties. The top four questions from the
>public are:
>(1) "How powerful is it?"
>(2) "How far can you see?"
>(3) "How much did it cost?"
>(4) "Is that the Little Dipper?"
This last one has to be refering to the Pleiades. I get it all the
time.
conp...@voyager.net
wrote:
A polite response...how nice. I'll edit and repost my original
message; let's see what responses I get. Here goes:
I edit the newsletter for an astronomy club. I'd like to begin a new
regular feature in the new year: Really, Really Unusual, Interesting,
Weird, or Uninformed But Not Dumb Astronomy Questions and their
answers. I am not extremely sophisticated in all areas of astronomy,
so would appreciate any help you folks may provide. I'll be grateful
for any Really Unusual, etc. but not dumb astronomy questions you've
heard or been asked, or even asked yourselves when first getting
started, and the correct or educating answers to them.
This is to be a light-hearted feature, designed not to offend or
antagonize anyone, most certainly not the members of the astronomy
club to which I belong. They have told me many times they like the
newsletter as I edit it, and I am sure they will enjoy this
light-hearted and inoffensive feature, as well.
Thanks, and the clearest of skies to you all.
Cordially,
Dennis
Curtis Croulet
>
> This last one has to be refering to the Pleiades. I get it
all the
> time.
Yes, it does. Unfortunately, the Pleiades *is* a better
dipper than Ursa Minor. Not a "dumb question," but one of
the more startling incidents was a time when I was showing
Alberio. A girl asked me to point it out in the sky, then
suddenly she pointed to Epsilon Lyrae and asked, "Is that
it?"
chrisachroisdk
> On 3 Nov 2002 00:38:58 -0800, chr...@mail.dk (chrisachroisdk) wrote:
>
> >> And we all know what to call people who play with themselves!
>
> to all this, and get back to some astronomy; what d'ya say?
> Cheerio,
> Dennis
Actually, I was getting a bit bored myself... Dennis? What are you
saying? You don't know a thing about astronomy! What is there for YOU
to get back to? You have ravaged this thread! You're going to have to
change your name you know(again).....Hmm..er..well...found the "Double
double" yet, old chap? What do you think of the 4000 series? The
eye-relief is a bit "iffy" on that 6.4 don't you think? As I was
saying to Sabrina the other night........Hang on a minute! What do you
mean by "easy"? Whatever your real name is?
Chris.B (Still under UN supervised truce protection & hoping for an
early cessation in hostilities...Incoming!)
Jon Isaacs
>I
>was merely requesting information, and got dragged into something by
>Little Curt, the PPP'er.
Right, get serious. You have been playing games with everyone here. Your poor
littel me act is not appropriate in view of your responses.
>Is he so shallow and weak he needs others to
>fight his battles, or are you so arrogant as to think he can't defend
>himself without your intervention? Either way does not mean a "loss"
>to me...I wasn't competing for or against anything.
I would probably say the same, had I been nailed so badly.
Jon Isaacs
conp...@voyager.net
As I said to Chris: Jeez ...lighten up...try a midol and decaf...get
into an anger management program...you're going to hurt yourself.
The name is now and always has been been:
Dennis
conp...@voyager.net
Jeez, Chris...lighten up...try a midol and decaf...stop childishly
showing off...get into an anger management program...you're going to
hurt yourself.
The name is now and always has ben been:
Dennis
Cathy
"Way down by the sad seaside, sat two lovers, side-by-side. First he
sighed, and then she sighed. And then they both sighed, side-by-side.
Peezie Weezie, what's his name? Peezie Weezie, Peezie Weezie, what's his
name?"
--
.... __~o
.. \ -\<,
......(_)/(_)....................... http://www.VoodooInk.net
conp...@voyager.net
<Cat...@nospamworldnet.att.net> wrote:
><intermission>
>
>"Way down by the sad seaside, sat two lovers, side-by-side. First he
>sighed, and then she sighed. And then they both sighed, side-by-side.
>Peezie Weezie, what's his name? Peezie Weezie, Peezie Weezie, what's his
>name?"
I like it...were they with Sally by the sea shore as she sold sea
shells?
Cordially,
Dennis
Cathy
Sally 'works in a ship yard and makes big ships.' ;)
(hold your tongue and ssy it..)
conp...@voyager.net
That's like spelling "attic" while looking down a pretty woman's
blouse.
Cordially,
Dennis
Jon Isaacs
>As I said to Chris: Jeez ...lighten up...try a midol and decaf...get
>into an anger management program...you're going to hurt yourself.
>
>The name is now and always has been been:
>
>Dennis
>
Still playing games I see. Still losing.
Jon Isaacs
chrisachroisdk
> Jeez, Chris...lighten up...try a midol and decaf...stop childishly
> showing off...get into an anger management program...you're going to
> hurt yourself.
Dennis,
Get (yourself) a life. You seem quite incapable of seeing the
humour in this thread. Nothing I write is with anger. I laugh until I
cry at some of the posts on here. I grin like an ape as I write my
posts. I laugh at my own desperate attempts to be funny. Nothing is
serious where a thread like this is concerned. Once it dissolves into
a "shouting match" it's simply a game of words. Nothing more. Not
showing off. Not anger. Not a competition. Not presumptous. Nothing
like that at all. Sword-fencing with your vocabulary, if it comes down
to it. Life is for fun. Not Midol and Decaf. Whatever they are?
Perhaps you are still young? You sound young, in the way you tried to
control this thread. You sounded young when you admitted you were
playing a game with us. You are obviously reasonably well educated,
judging from your vocabulary. Use that education to your own benefit
and (if you can) to the benefit of others. You owe that to the world
for giving you (at least some)brains. I haven't seen much sign of them
in this thread. Are YOU angry?
Boring bit: When you get as old as me. Then you've had enough
experiences to have knocked the sharp corners off and picked up a few
scars. But generally one gets on with life. Because there isn't much
else to do but try to continue as normal. Despite the storms. The
accidents. The loss of loved ones. Life goes on and you make the most
of it and try not to hurt others. I even try to be generous when I
can. It makes me feel good and pays society back for the kindnesses I
have received myself. I try when I can to make people smile. Even if
it means behaving like a clown on this group and alsewhere. And yes I
get grumpy and have bad days. I'm just grateful people tolerate me,
for all my faults and hope this will continue. I fear you may not
enjoy that privelege, if you continue as you are. Read what you like
into this. You will anyway. If you can't laugh at life, then try to
smile. And stay away from Midol and decaf. They sound negatively
dangerous. Veg, fruit, no cigarettes, no sugar, little meat and lots
of exercise are more fun. Enough. Get on with it. If you blink, you're
old. Just like that! It happened to me and happens to everybody on
this earth. One chance. Take it. Go!
\\///
Chris.B o/o-)
~~~
###
PS: The harder you run, the more difficult it is to keep that chip on
your shoulder!
conp...@voyager.net
Okay, everyone, I surrender…I yield.
When it comes to posting insulting messages to this NG, John is the
most insulting. When it comes to posting churlish messages showing off
knowing some tiniest bit of astronomy esoterica, John is the biggest
show off.
I admit it; when it comes to demonstrating impotent rage on the
Internet, John is totally impotent. When it comes to childishly
spewing ad hominem attacks on someone he has never met, John is
completely childish.
Remember, I merely requested some information from this NG for a
light-hearted little feature I was thinking of running in a small
astronomy group’s newsletter; I would have shared your anecdotes,
experiences, and exasperations with my merry little band of friendly
amateurs. Look at how my simple request has been maligned and
derogated. Too bad; something I never wanted.
Cheerio
Dennis (Celtic for a Greek/Roman God)
Jon Isaacs
>most insulting. When it comes to posting churlish messages showing off
>knowing some tiniest bit of astronomy esoterica, John is the biggest
>show off.
Gee, I am glad you are not talking about me. I am sure a careful editor would
notice a something so simple like the fact that I spell my name Jon.
Jon Isaacs
conp...@voyager.net
Chris.B (interesting, as in really burned?): I do find your
assumptions and presumptions mildly amusing. Your preaching and subtle
hectoring are also somewhat entertaining, especially considering you
know nothing of me.
You just don't get it though. I'm not angry; never have been through
this entire contretemps. I enjoyed the give and take of the
correspondence we've all shared. I even accepted the ad hominem
messages in the spirit in which they were given. But angry? Not a
chance. Chip on my shoulder? Not a sliver. Enjoying poking holes in
over-inflated egos? Oh, yeah! Lke painting with words? You bet!
You and I may someday have to compare academic achievement credentials
and numbers of initials after our names, dates on our birth
certificates, and numbers of grandchildren; we may be more alike than
you imagine.
And to think, all I requested was a bit of amusing anecdotal
information from you and your cohorts that I may pass on to others who
share our enjoyment of the art and science of astronomy. I'll enjoy
recounting this anecdote to all of them, academics and lay people
alike. I'm even likely to bring it up at the next meeting, this
Wednesday.
Cheerio,
Dennis
Jason Glass
"Won't viewing the moon through the telescope blind you?"
I usually look into the eyepiece, then stare a few degrees to one side of the
inquirer and answer, "Only for a few minutes." If they fail to see the humor,
I encourage them to let the next person in line step ahead.
It seems to me that this thread has been a troll, but something useful was
exposed. Even this group of people who generally consider themselves
"enlightened" is populated by a number of individuals who subscribe to the
wretched, politically correct view that we must carefully avoid hurting the
fragile feelings of some imaginary newbie by our use of the term "dumb
questions" in an S.A.A. post. GIVE ME A BREAK! That is even more repulsive
than substituting the word "stupid" with another word defined as the inability
to speak. 78 posts later we see that enlightenment requires more than the
lofty self-declaration that, "I am an amateur astronomer, therefore I am an
amateur scientist, so therefore I must be more intelligent than thou."
Best wishes,
Jason Glass
"Brevity is the soul of wit..."
-Polonius in "Hamlet," Act 2, Scene 2, by William Shakespeare
Jason Glass
"Won't viewing the moon through the telescope blind you?"
I usually look into the eyepiece, then stare a few degrees to one side of the
inquirer and answer, "Only for a few minutes." If they fail to see the humor,
I encourage them to let the next person in line step ahead.
It seems to me that this thread has been a troll, but something useful was
exposed. Even this group of people who generally consider themselves
"enlightened" is populated by a number of individuals who subscribe to the
wretched, politically correct view that we must carefully avoid hurting the
fragile feelings of some imaginary newbie by our use of the term "dumb
questions" in an S.A.A. post. GIVE ME A BREAK! That is even more repulsive
than substituting the word "stupid" with another word defined as "the inability
to speak." 78 posts later we see that enlightenment requires more than the
lofty self-declaration, "I am an amateur astronomer, therefore I am an amateur
conp...@voyager.net
"Notice a something?"...what's "notice a something?" "Like the fact?"
It's "as the fact." Jonny, that's why all writers need editors.
Cheerio,
Dennis
>Jon Isaacs
conp...@voyager.net
Glass) wrote:
Thanks, Jason, It's appreciated.
Cordially,
Dennis
HAVRILIAK
>>
Well, so will I. I was showing a picture of the moon to a neighbor.
After viewing it she asked, "How did you take the picture it was night time?
Then, she uttered, "Oh I know, you used a flash". This is the truth, Honestly.
Jon Isaacs
>It's "as the fact." Jonny, that's why all writers need editors.
>
>Cheerio,
>
>Dennis
Dear Denny:
I never claimed to be a great editor, unlike some sloppy writers around here.
Jon Isaacs
conp...@voyager.net
Thanks for the help...anyone else have an anecdote about strange
questions, comments, reactions while enjoying astronomy?
Cordially,
Dennis
Cathy
> Thanks for the help...anyone else have an anecdote about strange
> questions, comments, reactions while enjoying astronomy?
>
>
> Cordially,
>
> Dennis
I was in Macy's yesterday with my ex-husband. We were browsing the
men's sweater department and he pointed out to me a display of Meade
telescopes. $399.00 500x power! Tripod included! Telescope is twice the
size as it appears on the box! (The photo was the size of the box!)
I said: "Wow... amazing how they can fit a telescope twice the size of
the box in the box..huh?"
On the way home in the car he asked "How do you think they got that
telescope in the box?"
Cathy
conp...@voyager.net
No wonder he's an "ex-husband."
Thanks.
Cordially,
Dennis>
>
Chris N.
Most times these little spitting contests dissipate after a couple of
back-and-forths. Could be because rational thought takes over and the
participants realize that they're not going to change the other
person's mind. Could be that they read over their own posts, and
realize that they're embarrassed at what they wrote. Or it could be
that they realize that by continuing along, any legitimate point they
may have had at one time is far overshadowed by their exceedingly poor
behavior.
You folks are apparently cut from a different cloth, though.
I think everyone on SAA is willing to stipulate that you guys really
enjoy trying to insult each other...anything else you wanted to say?
Chris N.
Jason Glass
>Thanks, Jason, It's appreciated.
I'll accept your thanks for the anecdote, but don't you dare think my last
paragraph endorses your childish trolling. I see that you enjoy fanning the
flames, and I urge you and the others engaged in petty wordplay to stop the
nonsense.
Best wishes,
Jason Glass
conp...@voyager.net
Glass) wrote:
>Dennis wrote,
>
>>Thanks, Jason, It's appreciated.
>
>I'll accept your thanks for the anecdote, but don't you dare think my last
>paragraph endorses your childish trolling. I see that you enjoy fanning the
>flames, and I urge you and the others engaged in petty wordplay to stop the
>nonsense.
>
>
>Best wishes,
>Jason Glass
Thanks for the best wishes.
Cordially,
Dennis
conp...@voyager.net
Got any amusingly strange, weird, or otherwise interesting anecdotes I
may use for my little newsletter?
Thanks.
Cordially,
Dennis
chrisachroisdk
>
> we may be more alike than
> you imagine.
> Dennis
Delighted to hear it Dennis. Is it too much to hope that your
grandchildren have a recessive gene of your particular DNA? I'd hate
to think our grandchildren might meet. The results could be
catastrophic.
Cheerio Dennis,
Chris.B
conp...@voyager.net
You seem unwilling to accept an olive branch; curiously mean spirited,
eh! Your choice, not mine.
> Cheerio Dennis,
> Chris.B
Cousin Ricky
> There are no dumb or
> stupid questions.
Really? Have you watched many TV sports interviews?
Clear skies!
--
----------------- Richard Callwood III ------------------
~ U.S. Virgin Islands ~ USDA zone 11 ~ 18.3°N, 64.9°W ~
~ eastern Massachusetts ~ USDA zone 6 (1992-95) ~
------------- http://cac.uvi.edu/staff/rc3/ -------------
Cousin Ricky
> On Sat, 02 Nov 2002 19:23:46 GMT, "Curtis Croulet" <curt...@pe.net>
> wrote:
>
> >(4) "Is that the Little Dipper?"
>
> This last one has to be refering to the Pleiades. I get it all the
> time.
Technically, i can't consider this wrong, since the Little Dipper is
not an official constellation. I handle this by giving the usual
names for the Pleiades (one of my sisters is partial to "Subaru"), and
then point to Ursa Minor and say, "That is what people *usually* mean
by the 'Little Dipper'."
On the other hand, when someone referred to the Great Square (not a
constellation) of Pegasus as the "Big Dipper" (also not a
constellation), i found that tough to handle mentally. Perhaps there
is a critical mass of people referring to M45 as the Little Dipper,
such that the idea doesn't seem all that strange.
Besides, it *does* look like a little dipper.
But hey, once we get away from the official IAU 88, its like looking
at clouds anyway, right?
conp...@voyager.net
wrote:
>demi...@webtv.net (Dave Deming) wrote in message news:<28236-3D...@storefull-2355.public.lawson.webtv.net>...
>> There are no dumb or
>> stupid questions.
>
>Really? Have you watched many TV sports interviews?
That's why there are sports cliches..."play 'em one game at a time"...
"I only want to help the team"..."I just proud to be here."
Cheers
Dennis
>Clear skies!
Curtis Croulet
"There is no 'I' in 'team.'"
One of the funniest sports interviews I remember hearing over the years was
Bryant Gumbol interviewing Mike Singleterry of the Chicago Bears, just before
the 1986 Super Bowl."
Gumbol: "Do you expect this to be a low-scoring game?"
Singleterry: "I expect there to be a lot of low scoring!"
--
Curtis Croulet
Temecula, California
33° 27' 59"N, 117° 05' 53"W
Cathy
--
.... __~o
.. \ -\<,
......(_)/(_)....................... http://www.VoodooInk.net