Since 1968, the Sidewalk Astronomers have literally brought astronomy to the people. Beginning in California, the group has set up equipment in public venues throughout the word, showing passersby night-sky delights.
Now the group is organizing the International Sidewalk Astronomy Night. On May 19, 2007, amateurs in about 25 countries will invite the public to take a peek through 1 of a 1,000 telescopes set up on streets.
The idea for the event began with a member group of the Sidewalk Astronomers from Sao Paulo, Brazil. The long lines and tremendous response from the attendees surprised the Brazilian group. After a later wildly-successful observing event in Novosibirsk, Russia, the Sidewalk Astronomers leadership decided to try the international star party.
To read more about this event, or find out how to participate, click here.