In previous chapters serious projects such as asteroid occultations were discussed but these tend to be one-shot events that occur months or years apart. The same is true for eclipse chasing. There are, however, several programs which involve regular observations on a weekly or monthly basis. These are long-term projects in which the astronomer invests time and dedication, often working for years before finishing the effort. Indeed, some of the programs have no discernable end and are in the nature of patrols for events like supernovae or gathering of data for professionals to use. The ancients may have believed the Heavens to be constant and unchanging but we find a dynamic Universe in which objects are constantly in motion with respect to esch other, stars are born and die, comets appear as if out of nowhere and meteors blaze for a moment of glory.

It has often been said that astronomy is one of the few sciences where amateurs can make a professional contribution. The professional astronomy community has always had more observing problems and astronomers than telescopes to go around so they welcome amateurs. Of course, amateurs must choose observing projects within the capabilities of their admittedly smaller instruments but it turns out that there are many small-telescope projects looking for a home.

Planetary, Lunar and Solar patrols

Under the sections on each of the nearer planets, mention was made of sketching or photographing the weather patterns.