Descriptive Entry

This accession consists of the papers of David H. DeVorkin, Curator in the Space History Division at the National Air and Space Museum, 1981- , with earlier records dating from when he was assistant professor of astronomy at Central Connecticut State College, as well as during the years he attended high school and college. DeVorkin specializes in the origins and development of modern astrophysics and the space sciences, and is involved in professional societies that include the American Astronomical Society, the History of Science Society, and the Astronomical Society of the Pacific. The papers primarily document DeVorkin's scientific articles, lectures, planetarium programs, research, professional society activities, and preparation of his own books such as "Science with a Vengeance: How the Military Created the US Space Sciences after World War II" and "Henry Norris Russell: Dean of American Astronomers." Materials include correspondence, memoranda, and notes; articles; book reviews; clippings; agreements; lecture papers and presentation material; press releases; meeting agendas; information about committees, conferences, symposiums, and workshops; manuscripts; audiotape recordings; photographs, slides, and negatives; course outlines; proposals; and supporting documentation. Some materials are in electronic format.