From Salvage to Space

Created in conjunction with private school astronomy teachers, it was designed as a closed system, which meant bubble gum and dirt could not get into the barrel, and it was so rugged it could survive a 5-foot drop.

At a base price of $199, the Astroscan sold at an average rate of 2,000 per year—and continues to do so today. Although a few modifications have been made, today’s version is very similar to what was introduced in the 1970s. In fact, the Astroscan became Edmund Scientific’s signature product.