Stars and Rock Stars
Brian May is probably most famous for his time as lead guitarist and backing vocalist of Queen, but he’s also somewhat of a star in astrophysics, as well as other fields. Outside of the stage, May has carved out a persona as a talented astrophysicist and philanthropist.
His fascination with space began in childhood, but he maintained his interest in astronomy even during the height of his rock career. In 2007, May earned a PhD in astrophysics for work started in 1971. He’d long been interested in astronomy and stargazing, and he spent the later part of his career blending his passions for art and astrophysics through telescopic photography.
Brian May has captured many remarkable images of deep space using his own observatory telescope. He often uses stereoscopic (3D) photography techniques, providing a depth-rich perspective on astronomical features like craters on the Moon and the structures of nebulas.
May’s love of space and photography are reflected in his co-authored book Bang! – The Complete History of the Universe, which combines storytelling with cosmic imagery.
May is vocal about his belief that astronomy should be accessible to everyone. He often emphasizes that you don’t need a traditional education or an expensive observatory to enjoy the night sky. What matters most is curiosity. For amateur stargazers, he recommends starting with basic binoculars or an entry-level telescope and simply observing the Moon or major constellations.
As May writes in Bang!:
“The Universe must be the way it is in order to allow us to be here to observe it.”
With the right tools, anyone can capture their own slice of the universe.
If Brian May’s story has you interested in doing some stargazing of your own, The Space Store offers a curated selection of telescopes suitable for beginners and aspiring astrophotographers:
National Geographic 70mm Refractor Telescope (RT70400):
A perfect starter telescope with a panhandle mount, ideal for lunar observation and bright celestial objects.
A cutting-edge, smartphone-based telescope that combines sleek design with powerful optics. Great for astrophotography and app-driven astronomy.
National Geographic StarApp70:
This telescope combines a 70mm optical tube with a smartphone adapter and app integration for easy sky navigation.
James Webb Space Telescope Commemorative Pin:
Not a telescope, but a perfect accessory to show your love for astronomy and the next generation of space exploration.
You can explore these and many more at TheSpaceStore.com.
If you’ve got the itch to look up, take a cue from May. Step outside, point your telescope at the night sky, and take in the art that surrounds us.
- Written by Matt Herr