I've done it the wrong way roundn

  • Context: High School 
  • Thread starter Thread starter sophiecentaur
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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the experiences and recommendations related to using an 8" Dobsonian telescope for astronomy, particularly focusing on software and literature that can assist beginners in navigating the night sky. Participants share their insights on astronomy software compatible with OS X and suggest resources for learning about astronomy.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses excitement about acquiring a Dobsonian telescope and seeks recommendations for astronomy software and books suitable for beginners.
  • Another participant recommends Stellarium as a good astronomy software option for OS X and suggests the book "Turn Left At Orion" for beginners.
  • A participant mentions encountering issues with Stellarium due to OS X security settings, indicating that the software is from an 'unknown' developer.
  • Another reply notes that OS 10.11.4 has peculiarities that may affect software installation.
  • A participant explains that Stellarium, being open source, is not registered with Apple, and provides a link to instructions on how to exempt it from security restrictions.
  • A later reply expresses gratitude for the information shared.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the usefulness of Stellarium and the recommended book, but there are differing experiences regarding software installation issues on OS X, indicating some unresolved challenges.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights limitations related to software compatibility with specific OS versions and the implications of security settings on the installation of open source software.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in amateur astronomy, particularly those using Dobsonian telescopes and seeking software and literature recommendations for beginners.

sophiecentaur
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I decided to get a telescope, at long last. It's an 8" Dobsonian and was a real snip on eBay. (I have read the "Buying your first telescope" advice and have wantonly failed to follow it. Tut tut.
I have been using binoculars for decades and I have kept an eye on the visible Planets and other 'easy' events but I got this big telescope so that I can see other interesting stuff. We have recently moved to the country and the background light is very good for astronomy.
So my question is what astronomy software (os x) is worth having and what book(s) would you guys recommend? The Dob is totally manual so I get no GoTo help.:frown:
I will need a star atlas etc.. I think it is probably going to be good for my soul to start with something basic to avoid me getting too lazy about learning what I need about the nuts and bolts of astronomy procedures.
I have taken a year's sub to Theskyatnight mag, as a start.
Cheers in anticipation.
 
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Stellarium is available on OSX and is a very good. Many people recommend the book "Turn Left At Orion" for beginners.
 
glappkaeft said:
Stellarium is available on OSX and is a very good. Many people recommend the book "Turn Left At Orion" for beginners.
Thanks for the reply. I am having a problem with Stellarium. It is from an 'unknown' developer and my OS X won't allow me to 'allow' it in my preferences. Nothing is simple in this life!
 
OS 10.11.4 does have a few funnies and this may be one of them. A shame.
 
Stellarium like a lot of open source software has not been registered with Apple and if you want to run it you need to exempt it ( https://support.apple.com/kb/PH18657?locale=en_US ). While I use Windows at home I run across this all the time at work where we run mostly Macs.
 
Thanks. Brilliant!
 

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