outreach on wheels
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Gary Parkerson prepares to leave Las Vegas on the Surly Big — his portable astro-lab .
Last May , amateur astronomy enthusiast and Astronomy Technology Today managing editor Gary Parkerson embarked on the ultimate outreach adventure — a solo cycling trip through 48 states plus Washington , D . C . on a bike loaded with astronomy equipment . His goal for this epic undertaking known as The Pedaling Astronomer Project is to cultivate enthusiasm for both astronomy and cycling by traveling thousands of miles across the continental United States to engage people one on one with the wonders of the sky . In addition , Parkerson is using this unique opportunity to build anticipation for this year ’ s momentous total solar eclipse that
COURTESY OF Gary Parkerson
Pedaling Astronomer on epic journey to share the sky
COURTESY OF Gary Parkerson
Campground visitors look through solar glasses provided by the Charlie Bates Solar Astronomy Project . will captivate observers across America on Aug . 21 . Here , Parkerson reflects on his amazing journey .
Sky ’ s Up