gmd1@ihuxm.UUCP (Doughty) (10/20/86)
I'm posting the following information for a friend who does not have
access to the net. He is the sysop for a Bulletin-Board system in
Florida that specializes in Astronomy related programs. However, the
system also has many of the more useful public domain (or shareware, etc.)
programs for IBM PC's and compatibles. Chuck also makes an attempt to
have the source for these programs available (where the author of the
program releases them). Thus even if you do not have a PC or clone,
there is still many things of interest on his system. I should mention
that his board is by subscription. I believe the current membership fee
for STAR-NET is $40 a year (used for general system maintenance, floppies
for archiving files off-line, etc.). Readers should dial in and determine
for themselves whether they think the benefits are worth the cost.
I will admit that there are other free BBS's that carry many of the same
programs as Chuck's. Thus when considering whether to join, I would
suggest you consider the list of contributors to this particular BBS
(see bulletins 15 and 16 on the BBS). What membership offers is
contact with these people rather than source of free software (though
that is also a benefit... especially since one can usually get into
Chuck's system on the first attemp to dial in).
I think I've said enough. My opinion as to the merits of STAR-NET
are not important. Please consider membership only if you feel it's
worth it to YOU.
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INVITATION to PREVIEW or to JOIN STAR-NET
STAR-NET is a non-profit scientific information exchange society
which operates exclusively by, for, and with personal computer tele-
communications. This pioneering group differs from others in assets,
demographics, and goals.
* astro, technology, management, and "general library" interests
* mainly professionals with avocational pursuits & interests
* a resource group for expertise and tools
* huge library of public domain astronomy for personal computers
* major astro databases by telecom & floppy disks
* all major general public domain software libraries
* prompt observational alerts of comets, novae, etc.
* special interest message areas for inquiry & discussions
* on-line prediction programs & astrophoto aids
* instruments (telescopes, etc) under development for on-line access
Present assets include the world's largest public domain libraries of
astronomical and other personal computer software, and an outstanding
membership base. Anyone may join: individuals who share scientific
tools or pursuits, and are motivated enough to have made personal
investments like small computers are most attracted to STAR-NET.
The mission of STAR-NET is to provide high-quality resources of
several types to this community. The goal of STAR-NET is an ongoing
development of a set of capabilities and tools which are widely
available through direct and indirect means. Other organizations and
commercial services serve academic research functions and mass
distribution for popular consumption. Direct access to STAR-NET is
by 24 hour modem phone lines, while indirect access ("people contact"
for user support & disk exchange) is provided through affiliated
organizations and occasional colloquia. This approach manages time
and provides easy access.
The model which provides a context and direction for otherwise very
abstract goals is development of remote access to various
astronomical instruments and databases. From these, graphic displays
and data analysis can be accomplished with the modest means of a
personal computer located anywhere and with the convenience of
telephone access. This differs from most data center environments by
including primary data capture sources and by having requirements for
geographic decentralization. The classic capabilities of archives,
message systems, and program execution are included as well, but are
scaled towards the workstation capabilities an individual would
choose.
STAR-NET origins date to 1976. Continuous, 24 hour operation began
in 1982. Membership during the initial, three year exploratory phase
of telecommunications operation was free to qualified applicants. In
1985, membership was opened to all applicants on a dues basis to
provide fair elementary screening and financial support for operating
costs. The formal, non-profit, public identity of STAR-NET as a
scientific group will be announced in late November, 1986.
Most STAR-NET users call long distance. Calls to Florida from as far
away as Australia, England, and Hawaii are surprisingly frequent.
Some supplier donations for operations have been received. We are
seeking to offer reduced rate access within the US, and possibly
beyond. Preview level access and membership information is open to
all by modem: call (305) 639-0715 or (305) 268-8576 at 1200 or 300
baud (or 2400 on 639-0715). You may leave a private comment to the
Director & Chief SysOp, Chuck Cole.
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Greg Doughty
ihnp4!ihuxm!gmd1