Vic Maris
Stellarvue founder and Ace of Space Vic Maris began a lifelong pursuit of astronomy in the mid 1960s, after reading 'The Golden Book of Astronomy.'
When recalling his earliest memories of astronomy, Vic said, "My father bought me a 60 mm refractor to encourage my interest in science, but that telescope almost ended my interest in astronomy." Vic fought the telescope for several nights, with its wobbly base and defective optics.
After many attempts, the telescope was retired to his closet. "Far too many telescopes sit unused in closets because companies don't create them with the user in mind. If a telescope is not easy and enjoyable to use, it cannot do what it should; telescopes ought to foster a greater appreciation for the universe."
In spite of his first telescope, Vic continued to be interested in the night sky. "The pursuit of astronomy has given me some inspirational experiences. I sincerely appreciate all of those people who helped me along my way.” Vic was also lucky to live in Southern California, where some of the best telescope makers were close by and willing to mentor him.
Vic polished his first 6" mirror and made his first telescope at the age of 14. Two years later, he took on the challenge of making a 5" f-15 refractor at the age of 16.
After graduation, Vic excelled in a career working for California State Parks as a ranger and later, a superintendent. He worked for Parks for 30 years, during which time he set up educational star-gazing programs and also helped establish the Robert Ferguson Observatory.
As Vic neared retirement, he taught astronomy for fun in Sacramento, and his students encouraged him to make high-quality, reliable telescopes. With this encouragement, Stellarvue started in Vic's garage back in 1998. Since then, the company has grown exponentially and has produced thousands of hand-crafted telescopes.
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