Amateur astronomy

Amateur astronomy can be as expensive as you want to make it. It is, however, ERE compatible in the sense that while asset costs can be high, the running costs are non-existent. Once you have the equipment, there's no upkeep.

Amateur astronomy is somewhat unique in the sense that amateurs can make worthwhile contributions to the field. There are at least two areas where the amateur can contribute scientifically. This is because the night sky is generally so vast that large telescopes and the limited number of professional astronomers cannot possibly cover all of it all of the time.

Variable star observation

This involves recording the magnitude of variable stars, typically by comparing their brightness to neighboring stars. See AAVSO for details.

Fun fact: Jacob/ERE used to do theoretical work on dwarf novae (a type of variable star).

Comet hunting

This can be serious business but if you're willing to dedicate your life to it, chances are that you may get a newly discovered comet named after you.