The Sidewalk
History
The San Francisco Sidewalk Astronomers was founded in 1968.
John Dobson, cofounder of the Sidewalk Astronomers, has made it his personal mission in life that everyone have a chance to see the Universe as it actually is, and to perhaps better understand it.
He invented his own style of telescope - the Dobsonian telescope - as a means toward his goal. The Dobsonian telescope is distinguished by its ease of use, ease of construction, and low cost.
The following articles and photos celebrate John Dobson's contribution to the public appreciation of astronomy and our place in the Universe.
- John Dobson: A Brief Biography
- Early photos of John Dobson and the Sidewalk Astronomers by Richard Snell
- The Father of Aperture Fever by Jack Eastman
- John Dobson on Mount Tamalpais, 1975. Photo by Carol Straus
Advice for Sidewalk Astronomers
If you would like to walk in John Dobson's footsteps, and share your love for and knowledge of the sky and the Universe with the public, here are some pointers to get started.
- Before You Go Out to the Sidewalk... Educate yourself, then you can inform, even entertain, others! By Sidewalk Astronomer emeritus Ray Cash.
- Organizing and Running a Public Star Party A complete guide.
- Sidewalk Fliers Informative fliers you can download and print, or hand out on the sidewalk.