Update: NASA rescheduled the launch to February 8 (previously February 6). EP Skywatchers’ viewing has changed accordingly.
The newly formed Elkins Park Skywatchers Club is now an approved member of NASA’s Night Sky Network.
Skywatchers is the brainchild of Hector Ybe (above right), owner of Elkins Nutrition in Cheltenham Township and an astronomy enthusiast who regularly hosts observation nights for community residents. The club hosts “stargazing nights, sky tours, family-friendly activities, and special events for meteor showers, moon viewings, and more,” according to Ybe.
The club caught the attention of Gregory Leonard, a senior research specialist at the University of Arizona Lunar and Planetary Laboratory, who paid the Ybe and company a visit in mid-December.
“There’s a good chance that we could collaborate on some things,” he told Glenside Local. “He’s doing great work to advance people’s knowledge of astronomy in the area. My hat’s off to him.”
As of this week, that collaboration was made official.
“Joining NASA reminds us that even a small community like Elkins Park and Cheltenham Township can play a big role in inspiring curiosity, science, and love for the astros and universe,” Ybe told Glenside Local.
A member of The Associated Press‘ health and science team reached out to Ybe in hopes of attending Skywatchers’ watch party on February 6 as part of their coverage of Artemis II, a planned lunar spaceflight mission under NASA’s Artemis program.
Cheltenham commissioner Emily Cheramie-Walz (Ward 6) is looking into expanding Skywatchers across Montgomery County, Ybe said.
“The Elkins Park Skywatchers Club’s acceptance into the NASA Night Sky Network is an extraordinary achievement and a point of pride for our entire community,” she said. “This recognition speaks directly to Hector Ybe’s passion, dedication, and tireless commitment to making science accessible and inspiring for people of all ages. He has helped turn curiosity into community, and now Elkins Park is helping connect our neighbors to the wonders of the universe.”
The next Skywatchers meeting will be held on Saturday, January 31 at Elkins Nutrition at 6:30pm followed by another observation on Sunday, February 1 at 5:00pm. Organizers are expecting approximately 50–100 attendees, including families, students, and community members of all ages. The evening will include a live viewing of the Artemis II launch, a brief educational commentary about the mission, and a public stargazing session, weather permitting.
“We’ll have telescopes available for night sky observation and club members on hand to help guide guests and answer questions, plus a small activity provided by NASA’s Night Sky Network,” Ybe said.
For more on the Skywatchers Club, you can follow their Facebook page. To become a member, you can fill out this form.
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Photos: EP Skywatchers