This discussion group originated as an attempt to fill a void among discussion groups in Arizona by having a group that is more technical and research oriented. However, besides Arizona, it is open to amateur, semi-professional, and professional astronomers in the adjoining states of the South West USA, as well as anyone anywhere, on this planet, with an interest in spectroscopy or photometry. The purpose of the group is twofold. First, it is to provide a forum to discuss all aspects of spectroscopy and photometry, from theory and research results to the practical aspects of data collection and hardware and software requirements. Although the main emphasis is spectroscopy and photometry, because the purpose of this group is to fill a void in Arizona by having a group that is more technical and research oriented, it is also open to anyone who might have questions related to the operation of telescopes and CCD’s. However, imaging and techniques of imaging, except as they apply to spectroscopy and photometry, are off limits.

The second purpose of the group is to serve as an outlet for meetings held either by the list owner or members of the group.