Roadmap for 2025

Why It Matters

This journey isn’t just about taking pictures of stars.

It’s about doing something meaningful—both for my family and for anyone who’s ever looked up and felt a spark of wonder. DeLong’s Observatory is where that spark becomes a story, and you’re invited to be a part of it.

I hope to inspire people by showing that you can chase your passion, start small, and still touch something infinite.

Whether you’re here for the photos, the story, or the science—I’m glad you’re part of the orbit.

“Every journey to the stars begins with a single step.”

The Journey Ahead
Curious where this adventure is headed?

My 2025 roadmap is a glimpse into the steps I’m taking to launch DeLong’s Observatory at the end of the year—from learning the ropes of astrophotography to capturing my first images of the cosmos.

It’s raw, real, and rooted in a love for space, storytelling, and family.

This roadmap is my accountability for my growth in exploring this deep seeded curiosity. Whether you’re here to watch the journey unfold or walk a similar path yourself, I’m honored to have you along for the ride.

Come see how the stars will guide us.

  • This is the season of preparation.

    I’ll be focusing on researching, learning, and acquiring the essential gear I’ll need to begin my astrophotography journey. Expect a few unboxings, gear updates, and behind-the-scenes looks at how I’m getting ready—from choosing the right camera and tripod to understanding how to capture light that’s traveled across the galaxy.

    Goals:

    • Purchase foundational astrophotography gear

    • Study manual photography settings and editing basics

    • Learn night sky navigation and seasonal constellations

    • Start posting small updates and progress logs

    • Sharing the first glimpses of the journey on social media

  • This is it.

    The start of everything. Summer marks the official launch of my astrophotography journey. I’ll begin capturing my very first images—from moon shots and star fields to maybe even a glimpse of Saturn or the Milky Way. I’ll document the process, the mistakes, the breakthroughs, and everything in between.

    Goals:

    • Capture my first true astrophotography images

    • Launch The First Light Collection — a beginner’s gallery

    • Share lessons, reflections, and personal experiences

    • Build connection with others curious about the night sky

    • Inviting you to follow the journey and grow alongside me

  • With some experience under my belt, I’ll be focusing on building deeper connections.

    That includes growing a small community of stargazers and supporters, testing the waters with print options, and slowly shaping content for families and kids who want to learn more about space.

    Goals:

    • Share stories of my journey under the stars through blog, photos, and posts

    • Open email sign-ups for early followers

    • Offer first small-batch prints or custom image requests

    • Begin crafting the foundation for future educational kid-friendly space content and activities

  • As the year winds down, I’ll take time to reflect on what this first chapter under the stars has taught me.

    This is also when I’ll begin prepping for 2026—potentially expanding into more educational outreach, family-focused resources, and a print store that makes the cosmos feel close to home.

    Goals:

    • Release a “First Year Under the Stars” recap or mini gallery

    • Soft launch of DeLong’s Observatory with a community newsletter or membership circle

    • Begin planning educational resources for kids and families

    • Design a roadmap for 2026 prints, outreach, growth and inspiration