I've often contemplated outreach - not for me I'm afraid. Can't even consider Star Parties due to my inherent political incorrectness......... The last two years, however, I've given away a restored scope each year around December to younger aspiring astronomers, based on my Solomon like consideration.
The last year was a 6" f8 dob, resounding success, whole family now interested and dedicated observers. (Cracking scopes for beginners!)
I now plan to do this annually on a selfish basis, as I get more kicks out of it than the recipient.
Pictured below is this years project, under the stern gaze of "Oogaboogah", who contemplates candidates for two whole days "keep or cull". Kind of wished he'd decided to cull, this one's a doozie. (Stored under some house foundations for some many years.)
Luckily this has readily available cheap mirrors, and I believe I can refurbish the mount to good working condition - ideal for a 12ish type age bracket. Local people are now searching out forgotten scopes in their sheds and garages to donate for this annual event.
This is the closest I can ever come to promoting astronomy to upcoming generations without disrupting my valued and cherished solitude.
I will post "half project" photos, and same vis finished project. (Quantum blue, with constellations painted by the local folk artist I'm thinking?) But definitely something a bit blingy and out of the ordinary.
