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Operation Moonwatch, also known as Project Moonwatch or simply Moonwatch, was an amateur science program initiated by the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) in 1956. The goal was to enlist the aid of amateur astronomers who would help professional scientists spot the first artificial satellites in space. Average citizens served on Moonwatch teams around the globe. Until professionally manned optical tracking stations came on-line in 1958, this network of amateur scientists played a critical role in providing crucial information regarding the world’s first satellites. Photograph caption dated July 25, 1958 reads "George Brudney, center, director of industrial relations for Pacific Mercury Television Co., Sepulveda, presents electronic materials to Orlando Ludovise, captain of Valley Moonwatch Station, left, and Jim Doub, Moonwatch electronics director. Coils, condensers, wires and other electronic items will aid station's work."
Pacific Mercury Television Co.--Employees Men Artificial satellites--Tracking Astronautics--United States Electronics--Equipment and supplies Sepulveda (Los Angeles, Calif.)
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