We bring astronomy to places where people are not able to escape light pollution. That means setting up high-powered telescopes on crowded street corners for everyone to use. In 2020 we evolved our outreach efforts to accommodate a new world that is still in need of grassroots education. We are raising awareness about the from Universe live-streaming a view of through a telescope, to collaborating with institutions of science outreach in Philadelphia.
Sidewalk Astronomy
All you need is a telescope and a clear sky. Urban sidewalk astronomy engages an audience that doesn’t have the ability or interest to visit a museum. It invites people to make first-hand observations. Most participants in our program have never looked through a telescope before. We refuse a view to no one, inviting their perspective and life experience.
Collaboration
Since 2017 we have deployed telescopes in neighborhoods all over Philadelphia. Philly Moon Men have worked with the Franklin Institute, Temple University College of Science and Technology, Da Vinci Art Alliance, Philadelphia School District, International Dark Sky Association, TeleVue Telescopes, Philly AIDS Thrift, and many more community-based organizations throughout the city.
Science Education
We've developed student curriculum and have visited classrooms both physical and virtual. We are able to structure our classroom presentations to accommodate students of all age groups. The Moon Men have presented talks for a wide range of audiences on topics from astronomy history to sidewalk astronomy
Community Outreach
Urban populations seldom have opportunities to escape light pollution and to experience a dark night sky. Working with community organizations allow us to perform a wider reach of science outreach. We've worked with many community organizations all across Philly such as The Rail Park and We Love Philly
