Was there anyone who contributed more to modern amateur astronomy than John Dobson? If so, it must be a short list. From the inexpensive mount that bears his name and revolutionized the design of amateur telescopes, to the active public outreach typified by the Sidewalk Astronomers, Dobson’s impact is all over our field. His unique philosophy and enthusiasm about the wonders of the night sky was infectious. He has been a fixture of amateur astronomy for so long that perhaps we all thought he would be around forever. Alas, that was not so: he passed away this week at the age of 98.
John Dobson was one of a kind. There are no more like him.
Steve C.