Peter Read

A self taught stargazer, Peter Read’s passion for astronomy coincided with a budding television industry and the beginning of manned spaceflight. His programme, Night Sky, played in primetime from 1964; and his avuncular style inspired New Zealanders to look at the stars. It was the country’s longest running TV show when it was cancelled in 1974, and he was the longest serving presenter. Peter Read died in 1981.

In a way, perhaps, astronomy is a thing that one doesn't go all out for great discoveries and contributions. I think just to be there; just to be working in it is the only important thing. Peter Read, in documentary Take Three Passions