𝕮𝖔𝖒𝖒𝖚𝖓𝖎𝖙𝖞 𝕾𝖙𝖆𝖗𝖌𝖆𝖟𝖊𝖗𝖘
Quarterly Newsletter — Volume I, Edition I
June 2026
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Hello Community Stargazers Family
Welcome to Volume 1, Edition 1 of the Community Stargazers Quarterly Newsletter. Spring 2026 has been simply incredible for this growing astronomy initiative. From building and expanding the website and social media presence, to new partnerships, library outreach, hands‑on observing nights, and exciting affiliate updates, we are building something truly special here. Every week, more families, students, and curious neighbors discover the night sky with me and that momentum is only getting stronger.
This newsletter highlights what we’ve accomplished, what’s coming next, and how you can stay involved and support Community Stargazers as it expands across the region. Whether you joined me at a library event, followed along online, or met me at a park, you’re part of this journey of discovery!
1. Introduction — A Message From Community Stargazers
This first quarterly edition marks an exciting milestone for Community Stargazers. What began as a simple idea — sharing the night sky with my grandchildren and my neighbors — has grown into a vibrant, multi‑location outreach effort across Southeastern PA and beyond. My partnership with local libraries, beginning with the Upper Darby Municipal Library, continues to be at the heart of this mission. I’ve also been actively speaking with several other libraries, social and professional organizations that are eager to bring astronomy programming to their members. The momentum is real, driven by the enthusiasm of families, students, and curious newcomers who show up in person or online, ready to explore the universe.
As I look back on the past few months, I’m filled with gratitude for everyone who has supported this journey. Whether you attended a library session, joined a public observing night, or simply enjoy the Instagram or Facebook posts, you’ve helped build something meaningful. This newsletter is one way of keeping you connected as Community Stargazers continues to grow and deepen its impact.
2. News — What’s New Across Our Community
This quarter brought several exciting developments behind the scenes. Community Stargazers is now an affiliate partner with Agena Astro, a company whose equipment and educational resources have long supported amateur astronomers nationwide. I’ve also begun promising conversations with ZWO, an industry giant in astronomy and astrophotography, exploring potential collaboration opportunities that could strengthen outreach and help bring Community Stargazers to even more people. Nothing is finalized yet, but the dialogue has been incredibly positive and encouraging.
On the local front, my relationship with the Upper Darby Municipal Library and their new Astronomy Club continues to flourish, and I’ll be back there later this summer or fall. In addition, other local libraries and community groups have expressed interest in joining the programming network. This growing institutional support is helping build a sustainable, regional astronomy initiative that reaches learners of all ages.
One of the biggest surprises so far has been how far and how fast this little initiative has grown. Hundreds of people — literally around the world — have seen Community Stargazers’ posts and pictures, including some 8,000 views across the website and social media. As of a few weeks ago, people on every continent except Antarctica have joined-in and seen what we are doing. The comments and analytics show this nonprofit adventure is really resonating! This worldwide response is humbling and incredibly exciting — and to our friends in other countries, welcome! Community Stargazers is rooted in Southeast Pennsylvania, but communities around the world are part of the extended family.
This spring, I also became a Library Telescope Ambassador. The Library Telescope Program places high‑quality, robust telescopes into participating libraries and makes them available for circulation, just like books. Ambassadors help libraries set up, maintain, and promote the program. I’m looking forward to expanding this initiative throughout the greater Philadelphia area.
3. Outreach & Events — Bringing the Universe to Our Neighbors
Observing sessions this quarter took me to some truly beautiful locations. I held public outreach opportunities at Rose Tree Park, where park visitors stopped by to see the Moon, planets, and deep‑sky objects through a variety of telescopes. Thanks to the generosity of the Delaware County Parks & Recreation Department, I’ve been granted official after‑hours permits when possible, allowing me to observe, practice, and learn legally and safely past sunset — a tremendous support that has made Community Stargazers’ impact possible. (Thank you!)
Beyond Delaware County, I brought Community Stargazers to French Creek State Park and Gifford Pinchot State Park in York County, sharing the night sky with campers, hikers, and curious visitors who stopped by to take a look through the eyepiece. These sessions reminded me how universal the sense of wonder is — no matter where I set up, people are drawn to the stars. Some of the best reactions come from both adults and children seeing the rings of Saturn or the moons of Jupiter for the first time. Those moments are priceless.
A huge surprise came this quarter when action movie star Sensei William Christopher Ford sent a moving endorsement of this mission. So many people have seen that clip on Facebook. When William heard about Community Stargazers, he asked what he could do to help. That endorsement is likely one of the biggest drivers of our recent success. Thank you again, William.
4. Partners & Sponsors — The People Who Help Us Reach the Stars
As of this writing, the Upper Darby Municipal Library is the anchor of this enterprise, providing institutional support. But, as mentioned above, there are active discussions with other libraries and community groups. I expect several partners to be added by the next edition of this newsletter.
As mentioned previously, Community Stargazers is now affiliated with Agena Astro and in active conversation with ZWO, two industry leaders in astronomy and astrophotography. Other companies will likely reach out as the initiative grows. That professional validation is humbling, and it ensures this program will continue to grow.
5. Support Us Opportunities — Helping This Mission Grow
As Community Stargazers expands across Southeast Pennsylvania, the tri‑state area, and beyond, many people have asked how they can help support this work.
A great way to help is simply by liking, commenting on, and sharing posts and pictures. Spreading Community Stargazers’ work and mission to others is tremendously valuable and helps ensure we continue to grow.
I’ve also created a dedicated Support Us page on the website where people can contribute — whether through equipment donations, wish‑list items, sponsorships, or sending in donations of any amount. Every contribution, big or small, directly strengthens my ability to bring astronomy to libraries, parks, and families throughout the region. They help subsidize things such as travel, equipment maintenance, insurance, administrative costs, and upgrades.
If you’d like to learn more about how you can support this outreach, visit:
https://www.communitystargazers.com/support-us
Your generosity is invaluable! Thank you for helping me keep this project growing and thriving. Everything you do — especially sharing your joy and wonder — is deeply appreciated.
6. Looking Up and Looking Forward
As we enter the summer months, those majestic galaxies of the winter and spring sky will dip below the horizon, and the brilliance of the Milky Way will take center stage. This is when the core of the Milky Way galaxy, bright star fields, and some of the most amazing nebulae reveal themselves. It is magical.
7. Closing for Now — Until We Meet Under the Night Sky
As I wrap up this first quarterly edition, I want to thank every one of you for being part of Community Stargazers. This project has grown faster and farther than I ever imagined, and it’s because of your curiosity, your support, and your desire to look up, learn, and share together. The next quarter promises even more outreach, more partnerships, and more opportunities to bring astronomy to our community.
Clear Skies!
Community Stargazers TM
darren@Communitystargazers.com
QUARTERLY NEWSLETTERS
𝕮𝖔𝖒𝖒𝖚𝖓𝖎𝖙𝖞 𝕾𝖙𝖆𝖗𝖌𝖆𝖟𝖊𝖗𝖘
Quarterly Newsletter — Volume I, Edition 2
June 2026
A publication of Community Stargazers — Bringing the Universe a Little Closer
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1. Introduction — A Message From Community Stargazers
As summer gives way to fall and the nights stretch longer, Community Stargazers continues to grow in reach, impact, and community connection. What began as a simple mission — sharing the night sky with neighbors — has evolved into a multi‑library, multi‑community outreach effort supported by libraries, schools, businesses, families, and curious newcomers who simply want to look up.
This second quarterly edition highlights the programs, partnerships, and unforgettable moments that shaped the season. From library events to star parties, from a historic observatory visit to new educational tools, the momentum behind Community Stargazers is stronger than ever.
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Community Stargazers is honored and thrilled to be invited to join State Representative Gina Curry, and participate in the 5th Annual Inspi-HER'd field day on September 26, 2026 from 11:00 am - 3:00 pm in Naylor's Run Park!
Inspi-HER'd is an annual event geared toward young ladies from 4th through 8th grades, focused on mental and physical wellness, relational wellness, and community empowerment.
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2. Outreach & Events — Growing Our Library Network
A. Springfield Township Library — A Night of Discovery
This August, Springfield Township Library hosted one of our most energetic programs yet. The room filled quickly as parents and children gathered to learn about astronomy, and kids asked sharp, thoughtful questions that kept the conversation lively all evening.
Attendees learned about different types of telescopes — including which ones to avoid in the marketplace — and explored a variety of deep‑space objects, from those within our solar system to galaxies millions of light‑years away – all taken with our ZWOSeestar S50 . A hands‑on practice session allowed patrons to aim and focus telescopes inside the room, using stickers donated by Celestron as targets. Afterwards, everyone assembled outside to observe the brilliant Moon through several telescopes.
The Orion StarBlast 4.5 and Celestron 102mm refractor stayed busy as attendees put their new skills to use. The librarian said it was one of their best events in recent memory. Springfield’s enthusiasm has helped spark a wave of interest across Delaware County, and their staff has already requested future programs.
B. Upper Darby – Sellers Library — Upcoming Program
Our next major library event is already scheduled:
📅 September 16th — 6:00 PM📍
Sellers Library, Upper Darby🎤
Lecture + Star Party (weather permitting)
Sellers has a strong youth audience, and the staff is excited to bring hands‑on astronomy to their community. This program will include a beginner‑friendly lecture, followed by telescope viewing outside.
C. Havertown & Rachel Kohl Library (Glen Mills) — In Development
Both Havertown Township and Rachel Kohl Library have expressed interest in bringing astronomy programming to their patrons. Community Stargazers is working with each library to build sustainable, educational programs that can grow year after year.
With these additions, Community Stargazers is on track to operate five active library partnerships simultaneously, forming the foundation of a true countywide astronomy education network.
3. MKA Star Party Series — Part I & Part II
The MKA Star Party Series became the most memorable outreach effort of the season.
A. Part I — Saturday, August 22 at Rose Tree Park
A warm summer evening brought a great turnout — but Mother Nature had her own plans. Clouds dominated the sky, allowing only a brief look at the Moon. Still, families stayed, learned about astronomy, and explored the telescopes on site:
8-inch Dobsonian
102mm Svbony refractor
60mm Sky Chief
Seestar S50 imager
Even without clear skies, the curiosity and excitement never faded.
B. Part II — Monday, August 24 (After Karate)
To make up for the cloudy night, Part II was held at Springfield’s Meadow Green Park — and this time, the sky cooperated beautifully.
Attendees enjoyed crisp views of Venus, Saturn, and the Moon, and while the telescopes explored the planets, Miss Irina selected M51 — the Whirlpool Galaxy as the Seestar’s deep‑sky target. The resulting image was stunning.
The event was so successful that more star parties were requested for the fall, when darkness arrives earlier and observing conditions improve. Community Stargazers will be there!
4. Naylor Observatory
A Night with the 17-inch Classical Cassegrain
On June 24, Community Stargazers made its first visit to Naylor Observatory, home to a magnificent 17-inch classical Cassegrain — a true piece of amateur astronomy heritage.
The evening included:
A guided tour of the dome and observing floor
Deep‑sky views only a large classical Cassegrain can deliver
Conversations with experienced observers and astrophotographers
A renewed sense of connection to the broader astronomy community
5. Star Registry — A Personal Way to Connect With the Sky
Star naming is one of the most common questions asked during outreach events. Here’s the truth, explained clearly and kindly:
Only the International Astronomical Union (IAU) assigns official star names used by astronomers.
However, Community Stargazers offers ceremonial star‑naming packages for those who want a meaningful, personalized gift.
Each registry includes:
A star personally selected for you
Coordinates so you can locate “your” star through a telescope
An official certificate
And upon request, a photograph of your star, taken personally for you
These registries are educational, heartfelt, and designed to help families connect more deeply with the night sky.
6. App Spotlight — Stellarium & Other Astronomy Essentials
Many people have asked me about technology and apps used for astronomy. Here I will talk about a few I’ve used. This is intended to help beginners gain an understanding of what is out there to help. For this edition, we highlight apps that help you see what’s in the sky.
A. Stellarium
A beautifully designed planetarium app that shows the sky exactly as it appears from your location. Perfect for learning constellations, planning sessions, and identifying objects at outreach events.
B. SkySafari
A powerful planetarium with telescope control features. Excellent for observers who want detailed object data, charts, and observing lists.
C. StarSense Explorer App
Push‑to guidance that helps beginners find objects quickly and confidently — ideal for outreach nights.
D. Astrospheric
A weather tool that predicts transparency, cloud cover, and seeing conditions. Essential for planning star parties and imaging sessions. This app is very helpful and (usually) extremely accurate!
7. Partners and Sponsors
A. Our First Sponsor: Lower Susquehanna Combatives
Community Stargazers is proud to recognize Lower Susquehanna Combatives and Chad Dulin as our inaugural business sponsor.
Chad’s generosity marks a foundational moment in our growth. His support strengthens our ability to bring astronomy to families across Pennsylvania, expand our equipment capabilities, and continue offering free educational programs to libraries, parks, and community groups.
Lower Susquehanna Combatives stands as the first business to officially invest in our mission — and for that, we are deeply and sincerely grateful.
Their sponsorship is more than financial help; it is a vote of confidence in what Community Stargazers is building: a welcoming, accessible, community‑driven astronomy outreach program that brings people together under the night sky.
B. Support from Celestron
Community Stargazers was absolutely thrilled to receive informational and educational materials - for free - from industry giant Celestron! It was such a joy to see two boxes of supplies, including calendars, bookmarkers, stickers, and more information that can be given out at lectures and star parties. Thank you Celestron!
8. Support Us — The 12-Inch Truss Dobsonian Fundraiser
Community Stargazers is currently raising funds for a 12-inch truss Dobsonian, a major upgrade that will dramatically improve outreach events.
A telescope of this size will allow:
Bright, detailed views of planets
Deep‑sky objects visible even under suburban skies
Larger groups to observe quickly
More impactful library programs and star parties
The GoFundMe campaign is live, and every contribution — large or small — brings us closer to putting this powerful instrument into the hands of the community. As of this printing, we are only $150 short of our goal!
Go-Fund-Me at: https://gofund.me/aadc91fcb
If you prefer to give directly via PayPal, Venmo, Zelle, or with a debit or credit card, visit our support page here: https://www.communitystargazers.com/support-us
9. Support Us Opportunities Generally — Helping This Mission Grow
As Community Stargazers expands across Southeast Pennsylvania, the tri‑state area, and beyond, many people have asked how they can help support this work.
A great way to help is simply by liking, commenting on, and sharing posts and pictures. Spreading Community Stargazers’ mission to others is tremendously valuable and helps ensure we continue to grow.
A dedicated Support Us page is available on the website, where people can contribute — whether through equipment donations, wish‑list items, sponsorships, or sending in donations of any amount. Every contribution directly strengthens our ability to bring astronomy to libraries, parks, and families throughout the region. These funds help subsidize travel, equipment maintenance, insurance, administrative costs, and upgrades.
If you’d like to learn more about how you can support this outreach, visit: https://www.communitystargazers.com/support-us
Your generosity is invaluable. Thank you for helping this project grow and thrive. Everything you do — especially sharing your joy and wonder — is deeply appreciated.
10. Coming Attractions — A Look Ahead
In the coming months, we anticipate holding more star parties — most notably for our friends at Cornerstone Martial Arts and for a yoga studio in Elkton, Maryland. We are also in discussions with Bonner‑Prendie High School in Drexel Hill and Saints John Neumann and Maria Goretti High School in Philadelphia about developing astronomy programs or supporting STEM efforts at both locations.
We also hope to give you more information and reviews on astrophotography gear such as the recently released ZWO Seestar S30 Pro, and the brand new Seestar S50 Pro. Stay tuned!
11. Closing — Until We Meet Under the Night Sky
As we move into fall, Community Stargazers is continuing to grow. Our social media presence has exploded to over 20,000 views and over 450 regular followers from more than23 countries across the globe! We are now preparing for more programs, more partnerships, and more nights spent under the stars with families across Southeastern PA, Central PA, New Jersey, Delaware and Maryland. . Thank you for being part of this journey — whether you attend events, follow along online, or simply step outside to look up.
The universe is vast, beautiful, and waiting. We’ll see you out there.
Clear Skies!
Community Stargazers TM
darren@Communitystargazers.com