I could put into words exactly what I think about such a suggestion that is made my FE Wiki.
Being restricted by location and access, the astronomer is at a disadvantage. Astronomy does not, and can not, follow the Scientific Method; which is an empirical method of inquiry that demands that hypothesis is tested with experiment. The astronomer cannot put the stars under controlled experimental conditions to demonstrate ideas and come to the truth of a matter, as a chemist can do with his or her materials. The astronomer can only observe and interpret—a scientific fallacy which hinders truth and progress.
I quite agree with aspects of this quote. At least the first sentence. However the rest of it I whole heartedly disagree with. The astronomers raw material is electromagnetic radiation. Light if you will. Energy that has been chugging through the Universe since (very nearly) the moment it came into being. Analysis of that light (of all wavelengths from Gamma through to radio) has allowed astronomers to learn a vast amount about how the Universe works and given us valuable clues about how it might have been formed and ultimately how it will end.
By using an example that is hinted at in the quote, laboratory measurements of the position of lines in the spectra of various elements and then direct comparison with the spectra of stars has allowed us to confirm that the spectra lines visible in stars are due to the presence of those same elements in the atmospheres of stars. The volume of data that such analysis has allowed us to gather about the stars has given us a strong insight into the physical properties of stars that was unimaginable to those who lived just a couple of centuries ago.
Of course we cannot physically go and explore the cosmos at will and for that matter we probably never will. But there is no way that anyone of clear and logical mind can suggest that such a restriction has in turn restricted the progress that has been made in astronomy. Astrology most definitely yes, but astronomy equally no. Sorry guys who write the FE Wiki but you are not getting away with that one!