Axis Squared

Axis Squared was founded by Michael Bradshaw, who has a background in astronomical research as well as instrumentation. Mike got his Bachelors degree in Astronomy from the University of Illinois, and a Masters degree in Physics, with a concentration in Optical Physics, from DePaul University. Mike is a study in contrast; he likes both astronomical... research and instrumentation. He is as comfortable in the observing room of a major telescope as he is in the machine shop below. Most importantly, he is both a professional AND an amateur astronomer, which is surprisingly rare. Very few amateurs have the interest or opportunity to become a professional astronomer, and very few professionals can point out the Messier objects or align a telescope. I consider a blessing to be able to do both. After graduate school, Mike packed up his life and moved to Tucson, Arizona to start his career. He didnt have a job lined up, but there was so much astronomy going on there, he figured they were JUST WAITING for some young hungry guy like himhe was sadly mistaken. I knocked on doors. I mean, I actually drove to observatories and knocked on the doors! Thats when I learned that most observatories are vacant during the day, and all of the door knocking in the world wont do me any good Eventually, perseverance paid off, and Mike started the first of three jobs that defined his career. SkyWatchers Inn (no longer open) was a bed and breakfast in Benson AZ, an hour East of Tucson. It was owned by Ed and Pat Vega, two scientist and philanthropists who wanted to bring astronomy to more people. Guests could stay the night, and professional astronomers would come and would show the guests the night sky, using some of the 6 or 7 large telescopes on the grounds. Over the years, Mike taught hundreds of people about the night sky, about telescopes, and about film and CCD imaging. He also spent lots of time tweaking, adjusting and maintaining various large amateur class telescopes. Mike spent many years working at the Inn, and in the process ...Read More