| |
|
While we all remain at home, let us bring the stars to you
|
|
| |
|
Did you know this week, 19th - 26th April, marks the annual International Dark Sky Week,
a weeklong celebration of the night and an opportunity for us to consider the role of the dark and its star-filled skies.
|
|
| |
|
With the world on pause, the stars are shining brighter than ever which gives time to reflect whilst we whisk you off to some of the most beautiful skies in the world. As Vincent Van Gough said, 'For my part
I know nothing with any certainty, but the sight of the stars makes me dream'.
|
|
| |
|
Astrotourism in Arizona offers a glimpse through history and a real sense of perspective about our place in the universe that can encourage us all to dream, albeit virtually.
|
|
| |
| |
Arizona is the astrotourism capital of the United States. Its diverse landscape, from ponderosa pine forests in the north to 'Sky Islands' in the south, is home to more certified Dark Sky Sites than any
other U.S. state, 17 in total. The most recent designated community was the town of Cottonwood in December 2019 - also known for its amazing wineries, win win!
In fact, Arizona was part of the movement to preserve our dark skies and in 2001 The International Dark Sky Association, which is located in Tucson, designated Flagstaff as the world's first Dark Sky Site. Now Flagstaff is considered a Dark Sky City, such is the States commitment to protecting our stars with five other Arizona communities earning their Dark Sky Status from
the IDA since then - Sedona, Big Park,
Camp Verde, Fountain Hills and Thunder Mountain Pootseev Nightsky.
|
|
|
|
| |
|
Why is Arizona so well-suited to stargazing? A combination of good weather, mountainous geography and state-wide commitment to protecting the Dark Sky Sites.
|
|
| |
|
On a clear night, the sky is awash with stars, double stars and star clusters. Mercury, Mars and Jupiter are all visible as well as the Andromeda Galaxy. It's fair to say that the Arizona visitor experience
doesn't end when the sun goes down.
|
|
| |
| |
|
|
| |
|
While we remain at home there are plenty of ways to still enjoy Arizona's Dark Skies and learn more about them. The Lowell Observatory, Flagstaff, is offering a weekly opportunity to Meet an Astronomer on their
YouTube channel as well as glimpses of the recent
Supermoon you may have heard about. NASA even features Tucson's
MMTO AllSky Camera for constant dark sky viewing.
|
|
| |
|
For now, stay home, but know the dark skies of Arizona will be patiently waiting for you. After all, absence makes the heart grow fonder.
|
|
| |
| |
|
And if you wanted to find out more, check out these useful links below
|
|
| |
• Here is a full list of the full
dark sky sanctuaries in Arizona
• We even created a brand new Arizona Dark Sky Itinerary,
so you can start dreaming of your
• trip
|
|
| |
| |
|
Arizona Online Training Programme Launches!
|
|
| |
|
Our brand-new online training programme, Arizona A to Z, just launched! Complete the modules for a chance to win prizes and learn about all things Arizona.
|
|
| |
|
