Many moons ago, a large majority of the Filipino people- even those from the academic
community, never had any better understanding of what amateur astronomy is, and what it is NOT. In this light, let me
provide some brief insights for a better perspective:
Amateur Astronomy is a pursuit for the love of the science
and for a deep appreciation of the beauty of the heavens. It is a personal hobby, but an endeavor that has brought about
significant contribution to the advance of astronomical science.
Those involved in the hobby are therefore called "amateur astronomers"-
a term which has some academics confused. There exists a broad range of 'amateurs'. . . from the casual skywatch enthusiast,
to the most serious of observers. Amateur astronomers are, obviously, NOT professionals astronomers, but they
could be highly qualified professionals (such as Doctors, Engineers, Lawyers) in their own rights.
Professional astronomers are paid to do the job in astronomical research work,
but the amateurs do the job for the love of the hobby.
It is only in the field of Astronomy where the professionals and the amateurs
become ocassonally involved in collaborative endeavors. Amateurs have a lot more time and flexibility in their observations
of the sky- a quality that professional astronomers do NOT have.
With the advent of modern computer technology and the increase in readily available
equipment at affordable cost, the amateurs of today are at par or even a lot better than the professionals of yesteryears.
