Disabled Veterans Reach for the Stars with Observatory Program

Last Updated on Sunday, 03 June 2018 12:46

For disabled veterans, nighttime in a VA healthcare facility is often a very lonely time, with little to keep our wounded heroes occupied. Enter a respective but thoughtful group of men from the Stephen P. Barry Assembly, Fourth Degree, Knights of Columbus.

This assembly, located in McKeesport, has teamed up with the Amateur Astronomers Association of Pittsburgh for advice, process and technical support. Their goal is to fulfill an overwhelming interest and response from our hospital-bound veterans. They have branded this project “Disabled Veterans Reach for the Stars.” This project will enrich the lives of hospitalized veterans with healing activities that provide a therapeutic experience and lasting involvement.

This dedicated group has been working diligently to secure funding for the construction of an observatory facility, to be located at the VA hospital in Aspinwall, PA. This observatory will give our disabled veterans the hands-on ability to explore our galaxy in person, as well as from computers inside the facility for less mobile veterans. When this maiden project goal is realized, we are advised that hundreds of other VA facilities across our country can have the opportunity to follow. Ultimately, a network of VA hospital observatories across the USA can then provide countless hours of exploration for veterans. If weather is inclement in their location, veterans can either call up views from their own computer or from another observatory location’s computers.

Since its inception, the assembly team for this project have hosted several “Star Party” field trips for the local veterans to both Wagman and Mingo Creek observatories in the Pittsburgh area. The onsite trips enabled our veterans to experience real-time observations, and the reports back from these celestial observers told us these efforts were heading in the right direction.

Jim Surman, Knights of Columbus Disabled Veterans Chairman stated, "We have secured the location and are asking for outside help in accessing both equipment and funds to construct the first observatory located on the Aspinwall VA Campus.” Do donate, there is a gofundme page established. For more information, contact Jim Surman 412-841-6300 or e-mail RPIConsulting@msn.com.