"Professor Goddard does not know the relation between action and reaction and the need to have something better than a vacuum against which to react. He seems to lack the basic knowledge ladled out daily in high schools."
--1921 New York Times editorial about Robert Goddard's revolutionary rocket work.

"Correction: It is now definitely established that a rocket can function in a vacuum. The 'Times' regrets the error."
NY Times, July 1969.

— New York Times

Star Gazer

I don't even remember when I first became so interested in the sky. When I was single and working in NYC, I was so busy with a career that I loved and a busy social life,that I don't think I paid much attention - (Aside from a date or two at the NY Planitarium or viewing an eclipse or two, that is).

I think it happened one night as, newly separated with 2 children under the age of 5, I was feeling extremely stressed. Having just put the kids to bed I stepped out onto my porch to take a much needed deep breath. The first thing I noticed when I walked outside was that the moon was full!

Suddenly, it seemed as though all of my problems disappeared as I stood there, staring up at that huge bright moon! The only way to explain it is to say that as I sat down on the steps of my porch, my eyes never leaving the full moon, I felt this 'calm' come over me. And so I sat there, in awe.

Even now, the moon never fails to make me feel that way. Whenever I'm feeling stressed out by life in general, all it takes is a few minutes sitting on my porch and gazing up at the moon and stars to make me feel renewed.

One of my favorite places to be when there is a full moon is at the beach, when the moon seems to light up the entire ocean! As people walk up and down the boardwalk, spending their money on stands and food and rides, I want to grab everyone's arm and yell "Stop! Look! This is much better than any other entertainment you will find here!"

I've always wanted a telescope! As a single parent, however, there are always things that must come first, like bills, school uniforms and supplies, tuition, etc. But I have decided (after finding this web site!), that it is time to finally do something for ME! Something that will bring me the simplest of pleasures...

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So? .. Join the Club