How to write a helpful bug report or idea
Thank you for taking the time to write. The more specific you can be, the faster I can find a problem and fix it, or understand an idea and build it. Here's what helps most.
Reporting a bug
Please try to include:
- What you were doing, step by step.
- What you clicked or typed.
- What you expected to happen.
- What happened instead, including the exact wording of any error message.
- Your version of Windows, and your telescope or camera if it matters.
- A screenshot helps a lot. The form can't take attachments, so just mention that you have one and leave your email, and I'll write back and ask for it.
Not so helpful
“This picture sucks. It doesn’t work when I try to load it.”
Helpful
“I searched for M51, opened its info screen, and clicked the photo button. An error message said ‘Could not load image’, and no picture appeared. I expected to see the Whirlpool Galaxy photo. I’m on Windows 11.”
This is just an example. The exact message you see may be worded differently, so please copy whatever it actually says.
Suggesting an idea
Tell me what you were trying to do, what equipment you use, and how the idea would help. A small, specific idea is easier to build than a big, general one.
Not so helpful
“Make it better for telescopes.”
Helpful
“I use a Celestron NexStar 8SE. When I plan a night, it would help to see which objects are bright enough for an 8-inch telescope, maybe a filter in My night.”