Send us a text

Join Dave Farina on The Cosmos Safari Podcast for an in-depth conversation with Fraser Cain, founder and publisher of Universe Today, co-host of Astronomy Cast, and the creator of the long-running Virtual Star Party.

In this episode, we explore how live telescope observing has evolved from its early days of community-driven virtual star parties to today’s era of smart telescopes, remote observing, and AI-assisted astronomy content creation. Fraser shares the challenges of running Universe Today in the age of AI, the struggle to keep science communication human-centered, and his vision for the next phase of online observing—where anyone can access telescopes across the globe in real time.

Whether you’re an amateur astronomer, a STEM educator, or a tech enthusiast curious about the future of astronomy outreach, this episode delivers a fascinating look into how technology and passion for the night sky continue to converge.

Support the show

Support the Show on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/cosmossafari

⚡ Affiliate Links & Support
Some of these products may be linked below — using them helps support the channel at no extra cost to you. 
Highpoint Scientific General Affiliate Link: https://bit.ly/3UMNT9I

Find Dave “Cosmos Safari” 
www.cosmossafari.com
@cosmossafari on 
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/cosmossafari
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cosmossafari
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/thecosmossafari/
X - https://twitter.com/CosmosSafari
TikTok

Check out the video version of this podcast on the Cosmos Safari YouTube Channel www.youtube.com/c/cosmossafari

Check out the audio version of this podcast on the Cosmos Safari Buzzsprout page
https://cosmossafari.buzzsprout.com

Find Dave “Cosmos Safari” 
www.cosmossafari.com
@cosmossafari on 
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/cosmossafari
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cosmossafari
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/thecosmossafari/
X - https://twitter.com/CosmosSafari
TikTok

Support the show

Check out the video version of this podcast on the Cosmos Safari YouTube Channel www.youtube.com/c/cosmossafari

Send us a text

Astronomy outreach is a powerful way to educate and inspire communities about their Cosmos. Kevin LeGore shares his extensive experience in making astronomy accessible through hands-on outreach and community engagement, emphasizing that anyone can get involved regardless of their expertise. 

• Importance of community in fostering interest in astronomy
• How to get started with outreach, overcoming hesitations
• Kevin’s journey in astronomy and outreach 
• Strategies for creating memorable experiences during events
• The role of technology in enhancing outreach effectiveness
• Fostering scientific literacy and critical thinking in society

Kevin's passion for the stars began with a humble telescope, a gift from his mother, and has since blossomed into a career dedicated to sharing the wonders of the cosmos through public and private events. Together, we discuss how anyone can overcome the initial hurdles of stargazing, emphasizing the importance of community and local astronomy clubs as gateways to unlocking the universe's mysteries.

Our conversation takes a reflective turn as we examine the interplay between personal growth and professional ambitions. We delve into the role of mentors, the inevitability of failure, and the resilience needed to push through. Kevin and I share anecdotes about balancing career aspirations with personal life, discussing the sacrifices sometimes necessary to excel in one area while nurturing another. Through these insights, we offer a candid look at setting realistic goals and maintaining balance amidst life's challenges.

As the episode unfolds, we unpack the logistics behind astronomy outreach events, from the educational to the corporate, offering practical tips for aspiring astronomers. We explore the excitement of using advanced technology like smart telescopes and the potential future augmented reality may play to enhance the stargazing experience. 

With stories from our experiences under clear dark skies, we discuss the joy of sharing the universe with others and the innovative tools that make these events memorable. Whether you're a seasoned astronomer or a curious novice, this episode promises to ignite your passion for the stars and the surrounding community.

A Special Thanks to Will Young at https://www.deepskydude.com/ for the right to use his awesome music. 

Support the Show on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/cosmossafari

Woodland Hills Camera and Telescope Affiliate Links: 
All Products - Please support the channel -  https://bit.ly/3MWsvwT

Check out the video version of this podcast on the Cosmos Safari YouTube Channel www.youtube.com/c/cosmossafari

Check out the audio version of this podcast on the Cosmos Safari Buzzsprout page
https://cosmossafari.buzzsprout.com

Find Dave “Cosmos Safari” 
www.cosmossafari.com
@cosmossafari on 
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/cosmossafari
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cosmossafari
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/thecosmossafari/
X - https://twitter.com/CosmosSafari
TikTok

Support the show

Check out the video version of this podcast on the Cosmos Safari YouTube Channel www.youtube.com/c/cosmossafari

Send us a text

Unlock the secrets of the cosmos and revolutionize your astrophotography skills as we explore Starizona's incredible journey with special guests Steve Koenig and Scott Tucker. Join us as we uncover the story of how Dean Koenig's passion for astronomy in Tucson, Arizona blossomed into a thriving business, captivating imaginations and turning stargazing dreams into reality. Discover how their dedication led to the creation of the groundbreaking HyperStar accessory, transforming ordinary Schmidt-Cassegrain telescopes into lightning-fast imaging machines.

Steve and Scott provide a background Hyperstar technology, from its inception to its status as a game-changing tool for both amateur and professional astrophotographers. Hear firsthand accounts of collaborations with optical engineer Dick Bookroeder and the challenges they overcame with early CCD cameras, and how modern advancements, such as high-megapixel cameras and refined optical designs, have pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in astrophotography. Discover the incredible versatility that Hyperstar offers, enabling stunning captures of celestial wonders like the Lagoon Nebula and the Orion Nebula with unprecedented speed and detail.

3D printing has a pivotal role in rapid prototyping and product development at Starizona. Whether it's creating custom parts or designing instructions for astronauts on the International Space Station, the Starizona team's blend of technical expertise and passionate problem-solving is truly inspiring. 

A Special Thanks to Will Young at https://www.deepskydude.com/ for the right to use his awesome music. 

Support the Show on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/cosmossafari

Check out the video version of this podcast on the Cosmos Safari YouTube Channel www.youtube.com/c/cosmossafari

Check out the audio version of this podcast on the Cosmos Safari Buzzsprout page
https://cosmossafari.buzzsprout.com

Find Dave “Cosmos Safari” 
www.cosmossafari.com
@cosmossafari on 
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/cosmossafari
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cosmossafari
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/thecosmossafari/
X - https://twitter.com/CosmosSafari
TikTok

Find Rob the “Last Minute Astronomer”
@lastminuteastronomer on 
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@LastMinuteAstronomer
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lastminuteastronomer/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094679331665

Support the show

Check out the video version of this podcast on the Cosmos Safari YouTube Channel www.youtube.com/c/cosmossafari

Send us a text

Ever wondered how to unlock the secrets of the night sky without a telescope? In this video, Dave guides you through the essentials of choosing the perfect binoculars for stargazing. Explore the unique benefits of popular models like the Celestron SkyMaster Pro ED 7x50s, 15x70s, and 20x80s, and learn why each one can elevate your celestial observations. 

0:00 - Choosing Binoculars for Stargazing
4:38 - Night Sky Observing Tips and Tricks
11:39 - Portable Stargazing With Binoculars

Disclaimer: If you click any of the links below I will receive a small commission that helps to support my channel. It costs you nothing, but it helps to keep the channel running.

Woodland Hills Camera and Telescope Affiliate Links: 

All Products - Please support the channel -  https://bit.ly/3MWsvwT
Celestron Skymaster Pro ED - 7x50mm Binoculars https://bit.ly/3vqViUo
Celestron Skymaster Pro ED - 15x70mm Binoculars https://bit.ly/48iXw6O
Celestron Skymaster Pro ED - 20x80mm Binoculars https://bit.ly/48sXAB1
SkyMaster Pro ED - Full Lineup https://bit.ly/41Vlnas

From the wide field of view of the 7x50s, ideal for initial scans, to the powerful magnification of the 20x80s for detailed views, this video has all the insights you need to make an informed choice. Dave also shares practical tips on achieving optimal focus, adjusting the diopter, and the critical role of tripods for higher magnification models.

Tune in for valuable tips and tricks that compare the use of binoculars and telescopes, and discover why binoculars might just be the beginner's best friend. Learn how to stabilize your binoculars, even when handheld, and understand the benefits of using glasses, especially for those with astigmatism. We'll also touch on the impact of city lights, the vibrant colors of stars like Antares, and the best strategies for observing double stars and star clusters. 

Whether you're in a bustling urban area or under serene, dark skies, Dave's advice on portable stargazing with binoculars will help you make the most of your astronomical adventures. Keep looking up and enjoy the stars!

A Special Thanks to Will Young at https://www.deepskydude.com/ for the right to use his awesome music. 

Support the show

Check out the video version of this podcast on the Cosmos Safari YouTube Channel www.youtube.com/c/cosmossafari

Check out the audio version of this podcast on the Cosmos Safari Buzzsprout page
https://cosmossafari.buzzsprout.com

Find Dave “Cosmos Safari” 
www.cosmossafari.com
@cosmossafari on 
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/cosmossafari
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cosmossafari
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/thecosmossafari/
X - https://twitter.com/CosmosSafari
TikTok

Support the Show on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/cosmossafari

Check out the video version of this podcast on the Cosmos Safari YouTube Channel www.youtube.com/c/cosmossafari

Celestron.com

Support the show

Check out the video version of this podcast on the Cosmos Safari YouTube Channel www.youtube.com/c/cosmossafari

Send us a text

Ever wondered why stars twinkle while planets shine steadily? Join us for an illuminating episode with our special guest as we unravel this and many other celestial mysteries. We promise you'll gain invaluable tips for observing and capturing the splendor of the night sky, from the Milky Way to lunar craters, using everything from basic binoculars to advanced telescopes. Discover the secrets of planetary observation and the science behind the twinkle of stars, all while enjoying some lighthearted banter about the persistent challenge of cloudy skies.

This episode takes you on a cosmic journey through the captivating world of stargazing. Learn about the best places to find dark skies, how to use light pollution maps, and get practical advice on photographing the Milky Way with both DSLR and phone cameras. Dave shares personal stories and insights on observing the moon’s features during different phases and offers tips on using various binoculars and telescopes to enhance your stargazing experience. We even touch on the fascinating history of William Herschel's first scientific drawing of the Milky Way and Galileo's groundbreaking observations.

But that's not all! We'll also explore the mesmerizing features of Jupiter and Saturn, including their moons and rings, and discuss the thrill of observing globular clusters, nebulae, and galaxies. Dive into the end stages of stellar evolution and the creation of elements necessary for life, and get inspired to join a global astronomy community. With new episodes available every third Tuesday of the month, this is your chance to expand your celestial knowledge and connect with fellow stargazers around the world.

Support the show

Check out the video version of this podcast on the Cosmos Safari YouTube Channel www.youtube.com/c/cosmossafari

Send us a text

Can you imagine capturing the cosmos in stunning detail without the hassle of long exposure times? Say hello to the RASA telescope, a game-changer in astrophotography! Join us on this enlightening episode as we sit down with Dave, our special guest, who breaks down what makes the Roe-Ackerman-Schmidt astrograph an essential tool for both seasoned astrophotographers and curious beginners. From its innovative design that positions the camera at the front to the ultra-stable focus system ensuring razor-sharp images, Dave explains how the RASA's F2.2 aperture revolutionizes how we capture the night sky. 

Explore how the RASA's shorter focal length and faster imaging capabilities are perfect for places like Pennsylvania, where clear nights are a rare gem. Discover the different sizes available to suit various budgets and how each model doubles the amount of light gathered, making it a versatile choice for anyone passionate about stargazing. With Dave's expert insights and practical tips, you’ll learn how the RASA telescope can elevate your astrophotography game, making those fleeting moments under the stars a lot more magical. Don’t miss out on this episode that promises to transform your starry-eyed adventures!

Support the show

Check out the video version of this podcast on the Cosmos Safari YouTube Channel www.youtube.com/c/cosmossafari

Send us a text

Prepare to ignite your cosmic curiosity as we join forces with Joel Sercel, the visionary CEO of TransAstra, to navigate the extraordinary complexities and boundless opportunities of space engineering. Our interstellar conversation steers us through the nuances of space junk cleanup,  asteroid mining, and the potential gold rush lurking in the cosmos. Joel describes how our future in space is sooner than we can imagine, as we harness the vast resources of space to sustain humanity's future. Discover the sheer brilliance behind technologies reshaping our celestial pursuits, from AI-enhanced telescope arrays to propulsion systems that could rewrite the rules of space travel.

Have you ever gazed up at the night sky and yearned for the secrets it holds? This episode grants you access to the pioneering minds and technologies that are making the stars a little closer to home. Joel provides a guided tour of TransAstra's four-pronged strategy for space resource utilization; detect, move, capture, and process. We traverse the philosophical corridors of terraforming ethics and the practical concerns of low-gravity health implications, leaving no asteroid unturned in our quest to comprehend humanity's place in the cosmos.

Our journey culminates in a thoughtful exploration of mankind's innate drive to explore the unknown. Uncover the entrepreneurial spirit that propels us toward the stars, consider the future of space colonization, and ponder the impact of AI on the space industry's trajectory. With each revelation from our episode, we invite you to stretch your imagination across the galaxy, and in doing so, find inspiration to be part of the next chapter in our cosmic safari.

Join us each month as we continue to explore the universe's greatest mysteries, with experts like Joel Sercel guiding the way.

A Special Thanks to Will Young at https://www.deepskydude.com/ for the right to use his awesome music. 

Support the show

Check out the video version of this podcast on the Cosmos Safari YouTube Channel www.youtube.com/c/cosmossafari

Check out the audio version of this podcast on the Cosmos Safari Buzzsprout page
https://cosmossafari.buzzsprout.com

Find Dave “Cosmos Safari” 
www.cosmossafari.com
@cosmossafari on 
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/cosmossafari
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cosmossafari
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/thecosmossafari/
X - https://twitter.com/CosmosSafari
TikTok

Find Rob the “Last Minute Astronomer”
@lastminuteastronomer on 
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@LastMinuteAstronomer
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lastminuteastronomer/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094679331665

Support the Show on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/cosmossafari

Check out the video version of this podcast on the Cosmos Safari YouTube Channel www.youtube.com/c/cosmossafari

Support the show

Check out the video version of this podcast on the Cosmos Safari YouTube Channel www.youtube.com/c/cosmossafari

Send us a text

Rob speaks with Lance Lucero from Celestron about the StarSense Explorer tabletop Dobsonian telescopes. Lance walks Rob through the main features of the StarSense Explorer and they both share stories of their experience as leaders of outreach groups where they share their passion for astronomy with the public. One thing is for sure, Celestron's StarSense Explorer Tabletop Dob is one of my favorite scopes right now.

A Special Thanks to Will Young at https://www.deepskydude.com/ for the right to use his awesome music.

Support the show

Check out the video version of this podcast on the Cosmos Safari YouTube Channel www.youtube.com/c/cosmossafari

Check out the audio version of this podcast on the Cosmos Safari Buzzsprout page
https://cosmossafari.buzzsprout.com

Find Dave “Cosmos Safari”
www.cosmossafari.com
@cosmossafari on
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/cosmossafari
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cosmossafari
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/thecosmossafari/
X - https://twitter.com/CosmosSafari
TikTok

Support the Show on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/cosmossafari

Check out the video version of this podcast on the Cosmos Safari YouTube Channel www.youtube.com/c/cosmossafari

Celestron.com

Disclaimer: If you click any of the links below I will receive a small commission that helps to support my channel. It costs you nothing, but it helps to keep the channel running.

Woodland Hills Camera and Telescope Affiliate Links:

All Products - Please support the channel -  https://bit.ly/3MWsvwT
Celestron - StarSense Explorer 114mm Tabletop Dobsonian | https://bit.ly/3Rc05kY
Celestron - StarSense Explorer 130mm Tabletop Dobsonian | https://bit.ly/48hy4Ok
Celestron - StarSense Explorer 150mm Tabletop Dobsonian | https://bit.ly/3UM0g94
Celestron - Starsense Explorer 10" Dobsonian | https://bit.ly/49kiFhy
Celestron - StarSense Explorer 8" Dobsonian | https://bit.ly/3QPOpTM
Celestron - StarSense Explorer 12" Dobsonian | https://bit.ly/48m2zmf

Check out the video version of this audio version on the Cosmos Safari Buzzsprout:
https://cosmossafari.buzzsprout.com/

#celestron #smarttechnology #smartscope #cosmossafari
#telescope

Support the show

Check out the video version of this podcast on the Cosmos Safari YouTube Channel www.youtube.com/c/cosmossafari

Send us a text

Discover the night sky's secrets and sidestep the amateur astronomer's blunders with Dave from Cosmos Safari and  Rob the Last Minute Astronomer. In this latest podcast episode, Dave and Rob unfold a treasure map of knowledge, pointing the way to stellar success. Whether you're a seasoned star chaser or your telescopic journey is just beginning, the shared insights and personal stories in this podcast will illuminate the path, highlighting the power of preparation and the benefits of tapping into the collective wisdom found within local astronomy clubs.

Journey through time with us as Dave and Rob trace the evolution of the tools that bring the heavens within our grasp. From the revolutionary refractor telescope to the innovative Origin Telescope, we discuss how each leap in technology widened our window into the cosmos. The conversation also reveals how the familiar tech in your pocket may be all you need to start capturing the majesty of the night sky today. With Dave's expertise, you'll learn how advancements like the Origin Telescope are not just enhancing our view but making astronomy more accessible than ever.

As our cosmic conversation draws to a close, Dave and Rob leave you with pearls of wisdom for optimizing your stargazing experience. Embrace the dark—both in the sky and in your vision—for a deeper appreciation of the universe's grandeur. Plus, don't miss Dave and Rob's exciting anecdotes from dark sky sites and the basics of astrophotography that'll have you reaching for your camera.

Cosmos Safari's monthly episodes are your ongoing ticket to the stars, so join us every third Tuesday, and don't forget to like, subscribe, and share, keeping our community of celestial enthusiasts ever-expanding.

A Special Thanks to Will Young at https://www.deepskydude.com/ for the right to use his awesome music. 

Support the show

Check out the video version of this podcast on the Cosmos Safari YouTube Channel www.youtube.com/c/cosmossafari

Support the show

Check out the video version of this podcast on the Cosmos Safari YouTube Channel www.youtube.com/c/cosmossafari

Send us a text

Celestron's CEO Cory Lee and Innovation Specialist Eric Kopit join us to share their cosmic journeys and discuss the technological evolution behind the Celestron Origin Home Observatory. Feel the same wonder that captivated Cory and follow Eric's serendipitous path to innovation, discovering how the Origin is transforming backyards into personal windows to the universe.

Have you ever pondered the leap from Galileo's primitive telescope to today's marvels of stargazing? Our conversation traverses this astronomical arc, touching on the historic roots and the collaborative spirit that has driven the design of telescopes to become more than tools—they're now integrated parts of our homes and lives. We peer into the intricacies of creating user-friendly telescopes that resonate with the community, ensuring that novice and veteran astronomers alike can unlock the celestial secrets above.

Finally, we cast our gaze forward to the 2024 total solar eclipse, sharing our excitement and plans for witnessing this rare celestial ballet. We offer nuggets of wisdom for aspiring engineers and telescope aficionados, emphasizing the magic blend of curiosity, mathematics, and practical experience. So join us and let your imagination soar to the stars, as we recount tales of innovation and anticipation, all while basking in the shared glow of our enthusiasm for the cosmos.

Support the show

Check out the video version of this podcast on the Cosmos Safari YouTube Channel www.youtube.com/c/cosmossafari

Check out the audio version of this podcast on the Cosmos Safari Buzzsprout page
https://cosmossafari.buzzsprout.com

Find Dave “Cosmos Safari” 
www.cosmossafari.com
@cosmossafari on 
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/cosmossafari
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cosmossafari
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/thecosmossafari/
X - https://twitter.com/CosmosSafari
TikTok

Find Rob the “Last Minute Astronomer”
@lastminuteastronomer on 
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@LastMinuteAstronomer
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lastminuteastronomer/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094679331665

Support the show

Check out the video version of this podcast on the Cosmos Safari YouTube Channel www.youtube.com/c/cosmossafari