[Numpy-discussion] Integers to integer powers, let's make a decision

[Marten van Kerkwijk]

Hi Chuck,

I consider either proposal an improvement, but among the two I favour
returning float for `**`, because, like for `/`, it ensures one gets
closest to the (mathematically) true answer in most cases, and makes
duck-typing that much easier -- I'd like to be able to do x** y without
having to worry whether x and y are python scalars or numpy arrays of
certain type.

I do agree with Nathaniel that it would be good to check what actually
breaks. Certainly, if anybody is up to making a PR that implements either
suggestion, I'd gladly check whether it breaks anything in astropy.

I  should add that I have no idea how to assuage the fear that new code
would break with old versions of numpy, but on the other hand, I don't know
its vailidity either, as it seems one either develops larger projects  for
multiple versions and tests, or writes more scripty things for whatever the
current versions are. Certainly, by this argument I better not start using
the new `@` operator!

I do think the argument that for division it was easier because there was
`//` already available is a red herring: here one can use `np.power(a, b,
dtype=...)` if one really needs to.

All the best,

Marten
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