Scouting the Stars - A Boys Club?

C.C. Petersen, of The SpaceWriter's Ramblings, has a valid point in a recent post. News agencies have reported on a release from telescope manufacturer, Celestron, about a partnership with the Boy Scouts of America.

She asks, "Will girls also be part of that fine future as seen by Celestron?"

With a shortage of women in science, Petersen has a valid question. While there have been some great Women in Science and Technology, it's not just history that tends to forget half of the population. As a father of a daughter, I know what women are capable of when given the opportunity. Like Petersen, "I wonder how many girls see this and wonder 'Why don't we get this cool stuff?'"

I was recently contacted by someone who is trying to establish a program to get underprivileged kids interested in astronomy and keep them away from dangers and distractions on the streets. I think this is a wonderful idea and I look forward to bringing you more information. I believe that only good can come from getting young people interested in science and that every youth should have the same opportunity.