Re: Celestron and Int Star Registry

Please let me comment, in agreement with some thoughtful comments
on various "sides" of the question, that people who "buy" or
"register" stars as a gift or tribute for a loved one are
expressing human motivations we should all be able to
understand if not share -- and the question is how they
might best fulfill their desires while learning more about
astronomy and possibly also supporting a good cause.

A number of planetaria (or planetariums if you prefer) offer
"Adopt-a-Star" programs or campaigns which incorporate some
features of the commercial "registries" and appeal to similar
motivations -- but with a number of advantages.

The stars offered for adoption, typically for some set period
such as a year or several years, are either visible to the naked
eye or at least easy to find with binoculars. A planetarium or
observatory may specifically invite participants to come and
request to see their adopted star with the help of staff.
Educational materials are often included as part of the
arrangement for the donation and adoption. It's also made
clear that this is a question of adopting a star, not of
owning or officially naming or registering it. However, some
institutions will keep a permanent record of the adoption,
as well as provide a nice certificate.

Thus I'd advocate respecting the motivations people have for
this kind of transaction, while gently informing them of the
opportunity to adopt a star, or let others know about this
option, while supporting a planetarium or observatory and
learning more about the fascinating science and art of
astronomy.

It's unfortunate that Celestron didn't strike up a partnership
with one of these "Adopt-a-Star" programs -- and maybe they
could it now and set off on a better path.

It seems to me that the best response to the commercial
companies is more "Adopt-a-Star" programs of our own, made
more visible on forums like the World Wide Web.

Most appreciatively,

Margo Schulter
mschulter@xxxxxxxxxx

.

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