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Friends of the Observatory (FOTO)

Friends of the Observatory (FOTO) is the Observatory’s amateur astronomy group. FOTO has been integral to the organization since the inception of the Cincinnati Observatory Center in 1999. Along with several neighbors and community members, FOTO members helped save the Observatory from potential demolition, as the Center shifted its mission to one of preservation and education.

FOTO members host a meeting on the 2nd Monday of each month featuring an astronomy topic and speaker (see details for next meeting below), and all Observatory members are invited. In addition, FOTO hosts social events including a holiday dinner and an annual picnic. All Observatory members are welcome to participate in FOTO activities and programs as a benefit of membership. It's a great group for all, especially those wanting to learn more about astronomy and space science!

FOTO leadership this year includes:

Michael Schock, Chair

Tom East, Vice Chair

Chuck Fairbanks, Secretary

Dave Bosse, Treasurer

FOTO helps in several areas, including giving tours of the Observatory, leading programming, conducting historical research, and planning the 2nd Monday FOTO meetings, which again are open to all Observatory members. FOTO also runs the Stonelick Stargazers dark sky viewing events at Stonelick State Park. The group is a great support to the organization, sharing the wonders of the universe with thousands of people every year alongside Observatory staff.

To join as a member and participate in all that the Observatory - and FOTO - have to offer, click here!

Next Meeting:

Ormsby Mitchel in the Civil War

Monday, April 14, 7:30pm

Phil Shoemaker

In this talk, we will explore the life of Ormsby Mitchel during the Civil War, a period that dramatically shaped his legacy. Known for his pivotal role in astronomy and science before the war, Mitchel’s military career became marked by tension with his superiors, leading to his resignation—twice. This presentation will examine the complex dynamics of Mitchel's Civil War experience, highlighting his relationships with freedmen in Alabama and South Carolina, and reflecting on the impact of his efforts. The talk will conclude with a look at his death in Hilton Head and the enduring significance of his contributions to both science and the war effort.

Please note: FOTO meetings are now hosted on GoogleMeet.

Link: https://calendar.app.google/toEKeMBFuNgQG8sGA