This book is for the aging amateur astronomy population including newcomers to astronomy in
their retirement and hobbyists who loved peering through a telescope as a child. Whether a
novice or an experienced observer the practice of astronomy differs over the years. This guide
will extend the enjoyment of astronomy well into the Golden Years by addressing topics such as
eye and overall health issues recommendations on telescope equipment and astronomy-related
social activities especially suited for seniors. Many Baby-Boomers reaching retirement age are
seeking new activities and amateur astronomy is a perfect fit as a leisure time activity.
Established backyard astronomers who began their love of astronomy in their youth meanwhile
may face many physical and mental challenges in continuing their lifelong hobby as they age
beyond their 55th birthdays. That perfect telescope purchased when they were thirty years old
now suddenly at sixty years old feels like an immovable object in the living room. The 20 20
eyesight has given way to reading glasses or bifocals. Treasured eyepieces feel all wrong.
Growing old is a natural process of life but astronomy is timeless. With a little knowledge
and some lifestyle adjustments older astronomers can still enjoy backyard observing well into
their seventies eighties and even into their nineties.
