Message from the President

Dear Members,

We are thrilled to share that our recent year-end appeal raised over $40,000—the most substantial level of support we’ve seen in decades. Your generosity affirms that our shared vision for bringing astronomy into the heart of New York City resonates deeply. By investing in our mission, you have helped us open the night sky to countless neighbors who might otherwise never lift their gaze beyond the skyline.

In our Stellar Legacy appeal, we highlighted that, despite the bright lights and tall towers of our city, the universe remains accessible. Whether it’s observing the phases of the Moon above bustling streets or marveling at Jupiter’s distinctive bands with just a simple telescope in a quiet rooftop garden, these celestial wonders are closer than we think. When we point our telescopes at the heavens, we seek out those hidden moments—looking past our familiar surroundings to discover something ancient, vast, and humbling.

Your contributions ensure that we can continue helping others find these moments. Thanks to your support, we will bring telescopes to local parks, organize stargazing evenings, and create educational materials that guide novices to spot planets and star clusters from their own neighborhoods. We will host more community workshops, allowing young learners and curious adults alike to understand that the night sky belongs to them—even in one of the world’s brightest cities. We will continue to grow our offering of classes and bring world-renowned scientists to speak at our free public lectures. Our remote telescopes in Texas and Chile will continue to produce stunning images of the cosmos.

As our programs expand, we need volunteers now more than ever to help bring these experiences to life. Volunteers are the backbone of our community engagement efforts, providing the enthusiasm and hands-on support necessary to guide children through their first views of the Moon, help novices locate constellations, and spark wonder in everyone who looks through our telescopes. By joining our team of volunteers, you not only share your passion for the stars but also help inspire the next generation of astronomers—and dreamers—across New York City.

Thank you for making all of this possible. Your commitment to our mission empowers us to awaken new passions, spark new ideas, and deepen our collective appreciation for the cosmos. Together, we will continue inspiring New Yorkers to embrace that sense of wonder, look upward, and remember that we are part of something truly magnificent.

Alfredo Viegas
President