Robert Stephens

At the crossroads between Cerro Tololo and Gemini South in Chili

Biography

Phone: 909-987-2744

E-mail: rstephens ’at’ foxandstephens ‘dot’ com

With my dad having a career in the Air Force, I was raised around the world before we eventually settled in Riverside, California in 1970. I obtained a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in 1978 and later received a Master of Business Administration in 1991. I obtained my Certified Public Accountant license in 1980 and presently co-own Fox & Stephens, CPA’s in Rancho Cucamonga, California.

 

I have a life-long interest in astronomy but did not pursue organized activities until I joined the Riverside Astronomical Society in 1974. Since then, I have served the club in many capacities including President, Treasurer, Chief Observer, Grant Coordinator, and Publicity Chairman.

 

Over the years, I have built several telescopes, taken many astrophotos, done variable star observing, and now, do extensive CCD imaging determining asteroid and variable star rotational periods. I also have a passion for chasing solar eclipses, having seen the Total Solar Eclipses in Mexico (1991), Bolivia (1994), India (1995), Turkey (1999),  Africa (2001),  Australia (2002), above Antarctica (2003), Egypt (2006), China (2008).  I have also seen Annular Eclipses in New Mexico (1994) and Mexico (2002).  In addition, I have seen four Partial Solar Eclipses (10/77, 2/79, 12/00 and 7/00) and nine Total Lunar Eclipses (5/75, 6/79, 7/82, 12/82, 11/93, 9/96, 1/00, 5/03, 10/04, 8/07, 2/08).

 

As a member of the RAS, I became active with the Riverside Telescope Makers Conference (RTMC). I am a member of the RTMC’s Board of Directors, the Secretary/Treasurer and handle the registration and financial matters. I also serve on the as Co-Chairman and Treasurer of the Society for Astronomical Sciences

 

In 1997, I was honored to receive the G. Bruce Blair Award from the Western Astronomers for my years of contribution to amateur astronomy.  In 2002, Asteroid 1998 FA3 was named (39890) Bobstephens.  The citation is as follows:

 

Discovered 1998 Mar. 23 by P. Pravec at Ondvrejov.

 

Robert Stephens (b. 1955) is a Californian amateur astronomer who has determined some 30 sets of minor-planet lightcurve parameters since becoming active in the field in 1999. His high-quality work and generosity in sharing his time and knowledge within the amateur community have set a standard for others to follow.

 

In 2007 I became a Full Member of the American Astronomical Society.

To contact me: