Igniting curiosity, inspiring discovery
Welcome to the SoCal Stargazer Society, where the boundless mysteries of the cosmos meet the curious minds of Southern California. We are a vibrant community of stargazing enthusiasts, astronomers, and adventurers, united by our shared passion for exploring the night skies. Whether you're a seasoned observer or new to the wonders above, our society offers a gateway to awe-inspiring celestial experiences. From captivating stargazing events under the pristine SoCal skies to educational workshops that unravel the secrets of the universe, we are here to ignite your curiosity, foster connections, and inspire a profound connection with the cosmos. Join us in discovering the beauty and majesty that lie beyond our horizons, and embark on a journey of exploration, learning, and wonder with the SoCal Stargazer Society.
Picture of the Day
To Fly Free in Space
What would it be like to fly free in space? About 100 meters from the cargo bay of a space shuttle, Bruce McCandless II was living the dream -- floating farther out than anyone had ever been before. Guided by a Manned Maneuvering Unit (MMU), astronaut McCandless, pictured, was floating free in space. During Space Shuttle mission 41-B in 1984, McCandless and fellow NASA astronaut Robert Stewart were the first to experience such an "untethered space walk". The MMU worked by shooting jets of nitrogen and was used to help deploy and retrieve satellites. With a mass over 140 kilograms, an MMU is heavy on Earth, but, like everything, is weightless when drifting in orbit. The MMU was later replaced with the SAFER backpack propulsion unit.
