About ScopeTrader ^®

Our mission: To grow the hobby of astronomy

ScopeTrader is built by astronomers, for astronomers. We’re a registered media company dedicated to serving the astronomy community with a full suite of resources: a monthly magazine focused on astronomy technology and space, daily news updates, classifieds, active forums, and much more.

If you'd like to learn more about our memberships or magazine subscription options, you can find all the details here.

When we say “free resource,” we truly mean it. Aside from our optional monthly magazine subscription - which helps support the infrastructure that keeps everything else running - all of ScopeTrader's features are freely accessible to everyone.

ScopeTrader exists to be a cornerstone for both amateur and professional astronomers — a vibrant space where enthusiasts can connect, exchange gear, stay informed, and celebrate their shared love of the night sky.

Our platform features news coverage, community-driven discussions, astrophotography showcases, classified listings, and a passionate commitment to making astronomy gear and knowledge accessible to everyone.

You may have seen us on TV, at NEAF, on YouTube, and across the web — wherever the astronomy community gathers.

A Platform Created by Astronomers, for Astronomers

ScopeTrader was founded in 2001 by Richard Harris, inventor of the "Telescope HyperTune," an avid astrophotographer, and operator of Ozark Hills Observatory in Missouri. Richard is a dedicated amateur astronomer and a proud member of the Springfield Astronomical Society, the Amateur Astronomers Association, the Astronomical League, and the International Dark Sky Association.

(Original "Harris Family" ScopeTrader branding image from the launch of the website in 2001) ScopeTrader is owned and operated by Moonbeam®, a Harris family-run software company headquartered in Springfield, Missouri. The platform is proudly partnered with many astronomyt vendors, in including Sky & Telescope, and our observatory presence at Starfront Observatories

Our Commitment to Openness and Community

ScopeTrader does not censor discussion - but we do actively moderate to protect our community from hate speech, bullying, and harassment. Our goal is to keep ScopeTrader a welcoming, respectful space where everyone can share, learn, and connect safely.

After all, it’s all about the universe - and we all live here together. Let’s get along and enjoy the sky as one community.

We welcome participation from all astronomy voices - whether you're an amateur observer, a seasoned astrophotographer, a gear maker, or a vendor. We embrace transparency, competition, and collaboration. The platform is supported entirely by Moonbeam and optional advertising from astronomy manufacturers and vendors, with no paywalls for access to any of our core features.

Legal & Trademark Notice

ScopeTrader is a registered trademark of Moonbeam®, and all rights are reserved. Use of the ScopeTrader name, brand, or mark without express written permission from ScopeTrader is strictly prohibited.

• USPTO Serial Number: 7802087
• International Classes: 035, 041, 042
• ScopeTrader is a registered media company with the U.S. Library of Congress.