Greg Bragg (1955–2026)

Greg Bragg at the Nebraska Star Party 

It is with profound sadness that the Explore Scientific family remembers our dear friend and longtime colleague, Greg Bragg, who passed away on June 23, 2026, at the age of 70.

For many in the astronomy community, Greg was more than a respected sales and marketing professional. He was a familiar face at star parties across North America, a trusted advisor, an accomplished photographer, and someone who never missed an opportunity to help another person discover the beauty of the night sky. His enthusiasm for astronomy was genuine, his knowledge was extensive, and his kindness left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to meet him.

Greg often said that his parents taught him to find work he was passionate about because then it would never feel like work. He lived that philosophy every day. After discovering photography as a young man, he built a remarkable career that spanned the photographic, sport optics, and telescope industries. He worked with many of the leading companies in astronomy and imaging, earning a reputation for integrity, professionalism, and a simple personal rule he believed defined success: “Do what you say you are going to do, when you say you are going to do it.”

Those who worked with Greg knew that his greatest strength was never simply selling products. He built relationships. Whether helping a retailer, supporting a dealer, training a sales team, or introducing someone to Saturn through a telescope for the first time, Greg made people feel valued. He believed astronomy was meant to be shared, and he spent decades bringing people together under dark skies, creating friendships that lasted a lifetime.

For Explore Scientific President Scott W. Roberts, Greg’s friendship became something far deeper than a professional relationship.

“When I think of Greg Bragg, I think of my friend—really, a brother of mine. We traveled thousands of miles together, sharing the night sky at star parties across the country. Those years became some of the happiest of my life, and Greg later told me they were among the happiest of his. I have treasured those words ever since.

Most people don’t know that Greg literally saved my life. While driving through the Oklahoma Panhandle, I began turning left, unaware that a truck had pulled into the oncoming lane to pass us at high speed. Greg saw what I didn’t and shouted for me to stop at the last possible moment. Had he not, I almost certainly would not be here today.

That was Greg. He was always looking out for other people. He made everyone feel welcome, whether they were lifelong astronomers or someone seeing the rings of Saturn for the very first time. His kindness changed more lives than he ever knew, and mine is one of them.

I will miss the miles we traveled together, the laughter beneath dark skies, and the countless moments of wonder we shared. Clear skies, my friend. Until we meet again.”

Greg retired from the astronomy industry on June 30, 2023, after a career that touched countless lives. Retirement gave him more time to enjoy photography, music, golf, traveling with his wife Linda in their RV, and exploring America’s national parks. Yet he remained deeply connected with the astronomy community and the many friendships he had built over decades.

Beyond astronomy, Greg was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Linda, with whom he shared 36 years of marriage. He was an extraordinary father to Tyler and Trevor, a loving brother, uncle, neighbor, church leader, and faithful friend. His warmth drew people together wherever he went, whether hosting neighbors, leading discussions at church, or gathering friends around a telescope beneath a dark sky.

Greg is survived by his wife, Linda Spagnola-Bragg; his sons, Tyler and Trevor; his sister, Jamie Bragg Thurby; and a large extended family who loved him dearly. His legacy also lives on through the thousands of people whose lives he enriched with his generosity, encouragement, and passion for discovery.

At Explore Scientific, we are grateful for the years we shared with Greg, for the wisdom he gave so freely, and for the example he set through a life marked by integrity, friendship, and wonder.

The night sky feels a little different now.

But every time someone looks through a telescope for the first time and smiles, part of Greg’s legacy shines on.

Clear skies, Greg. You will always be part of the Explore Scientific family.

Memories of Greg