Four decades ago, when I began practical astronomy, the range of equipment used by amateurs was rather limited. Newtonian reflectors dominated, with a very small number of amateurs using Cassegrain reflectors. Some also had 3-inch (76 mm) or 4-inch (102 mm) refractors. Mass-produced Schmidt–Cassegrain telescopes were yet to conquer even their home market of America. Accessories were limited to not much more than a few different types of eyepieces and some filters. Only a small percentage of even serious amateur astronomers carried out photography (using photographic film, of course). Another difference from today is that back then many amateur astronomers built much of their own equipment. Personal computers appeared only in science fiction and the Internet didn't exist even as a futuristic fantasy.

How things have changed! Now very few astronomers make their own equipment and the marketplace is replete with an almost bewildering variety of different types of telescope and accessories. Today's serious amateurs are able to undertake a vast range of observational projects. In most cases this involves the now ubiquitous personal computer or laptop and the Internet is now regarded as an indispensable resource.