How much have you spent on this hobby so far?

[Leo]

I'm corious, because I'm about to spend alot on it this year and next year.

[WWPierre]

Great idea, Enrico, I think I'll stick this to the top for a while.

[EricFD]

Good question, Leo! I think over the years I have spent between $3,000 - $4,000, probably being closer to $4,000....maybe even more than $4,000 if I really think about it. And it was worth every penny and more!

[Leo]

Thanks for sticking it Pierre, It would probably just get lost beyond the first page soon since it's a poll.
Thank you for the answer too Eric, your answer supports me, especially since you say it's worth every penny and more!

BTW I voted on the less than 500, so that only vote in mine. won't be long until I would be voting on the last options. I should probably have included options beyond $5000 since there's already a vote in there, and there are OTAs alone that cost way more than that!

[powervolume]

I've only spent 60 bucks so far but I'd love to get my hands on a big telescope someday. The used sector looks yummier and yummier all the time. My Uncle purchased a used Meade LX50 10" with the mount, a few eyepieces, and a Magellen II for 400 bucks. That's a probably at least a 1,500 dollar value, right?

[Dublin sky watch]

I only started back in to astronomy in August 2009. I have gone through about €7,000 to date. Its about quality of life issues. I spend most of my time working. This is what gives me real satisfaction when I am nor working. I think you cant de in this hobby without having to look at your wallet and bank account and wonder why did I not take up basket weaving or knitting where the outlay wouldn't be so great...
Mind you, you do run the risk of splinters or poking someones eye out with a needle in those pass times. So I chose astronomy instead..

[Carolgentle]

Yikes, I'm not even going to think about what I've spent or what I will spend on this hobby! Agree with you Deccers, it is about enjoying life and neither basket weaving nor knitting appeal to me either.

The great thing about astronomy is you don't actually need to spend anything to enjoy it. All you have to do is look up and you'll see loads of great stuff! (Not recommended in the rain lol)

Clear skies

Carol

[carnevali]

Don't you all think this kind of survey - assuming a large response - could give us some clout with distributors? Perhaps forum members should get a special discount? We do spend a lot of money on gear and we're likely to keep on doing so.

[adeybaby]

I'm looking at just under £2500 since April 2009! 4 scopes and countless bits, books and magazines! The only thing i need to spend more of is time weather permitting!

Clear skies

[somecdnguy]

Well if you count telescopes, cameras, accessories, books, software and the meteorite collection I am looking probably close to $30k