Operation Moonwatch (also known as Project Moonwatch and, more simply, as Moonwatch) was an amateur science program formally initiated by the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) in 1956.[1] The SAO organized Moonwatch as part of the International Geophysical Year (IGY) which was probably the largest single scientific undertaking in history. Its initial goal was to enlist the aid of amateur astronomers and other citizens who would help professional scientists spot the first artificial satellites. Until professionally staffed optical tracking stations came on-line in 1958, this network of amateur scientists and other interested citizens played a critical role in providing crucial information regarding the world's first satellites.[2]
- ^ "Operation Moonwatch Begins". Siris-sihistory.si.edu. Smithsonian Institution. 1957. Retrieved 29 August 2019.
Torch, 9/1956, p. 1, Annual Report of the Smithsonian Institution for the year 1957, p. 8, 74
- ^ Auchincloss, Kenneth (1957-11-09). "Smithsonian Astronomers Keep Hectic Pace | News | The Harvard Crimson". Thecrimson.com. Archived from the original on 4 March 2016. Retrieved 2016-02-24.