What financial consideration for astrophotography gear is described as a 'tech tax' due to rapid technological updates?

Depreciation and obsolescence

A hidden, continuous financial burden associated with advanced astrophotography equipment, especially computer-controlled mounts and digital cameras, is depreciation and obsolescence. As newer sensors and guiding algorithms are released, equipment, though still functional, suffers a sharp decline in resale value—potentially 30% to 50% drop over five years for a mount, for instance. This constant erosion of asset value due to technological advancement is characterized as a 'tech tax.' It acts similarly to a long-term subscription cost because serious hobbyists aiming to maintain current imaging standards must budget for these technological upgrades and resulting value losses.