Marley Foundation CFO Nancy Ball nailed it when she said, “If I were 6 years old, I would definitely spend the day here!” As if to prove her point, 6-year-old Brooks Sedlak of Scottsdale was one of the first to settle in at the Orbits Curiosity Zone of the Marley Foundation Astronomy Discovery Center. “He wants to be an astronaut,” explained his mom, Stephanie. Likewise, hundreds of supporters, businesspeople, community leaders and space enthusiasts of all ages eagerly waited under light … [Read more...] about Lowell Observatory Puts Space Discovery at the World’s Fingertips
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Lowell Observatory Welcomes New Executive Director Amanda Bosh
Lowell Observatory has announced the appointment of Amanda Bosh, Ph.D., as its new executive director, succeeding Jeff Hall, Ph.D., who has led the observatory for 14 years. Bosh is scheduled to assume her new role Nov. 8. Lowell representatives say she brings a wealth of experience in planetary science research, education and operational leadership, positioning Lowell for continued growth and scientific innovation. Bosh’s leadership comes at a pivotal time for the observatory as it prepares … [Read more...] about Lowell Observatory Welcomes New Executive Director Amanda Bosh
Jitters Lunchbox to Operate Planet X Café at Lowell Observatory
Lowell Observatory’s Marley Foundation Astronomy Discovery Center will feature an eatery named Planet X Café, and the observatory has selected the popular Flagstaff restaurant, Jitters Lunchbox, to operate it. Planet X Cafe is sponsored by Nackard Pepsi, with the Nackard family boasting a long history in the Flagstaff community and at Lowell Observatory. Jitters signed a two-year lease to provide hot and cold sandwiches, soups, salads and a variety of drinks. The café will be open day and … [Read more...] about Jitters Lunchbox to Operate Planet X Café at Lowell Observatory
A Multi-Sensory Cosmic Connection to the Universe is Forming
With power tools and the precision of master craftspeople, the final gems are being meticulously set into what is being called the crown jewel of Northern Arizona. The Marley Foundation Astronomy Discovery Center is scheduled to reveal its majestic science artistry and high-tech interactive exhibits Saturday, Nov. 16, in a grand opening with a grand view. On the rooftop of the three-story building, chairs are lined up like moonstones, ready to be positioned into place to connect guests with … [Read more...] about A Multi-Sensory Cosmic Connection to the Universe is Forming
Lowell Leader, Stellar Researcher Jeff Hall Shines as Dark Skies Champion
In the nicest, most respectful and patiently persistent way, Lowell Observatory Executive Director Jeff Hall has been a “bullfighter” for dark skies on many different levels, say those in the astronomer world. “There’s a saying: ‘It’s not what you do, but how you do it that counts,’” said Lowell Historian Kevin Schindler. “And Jeff has mastered the skill of working through sometimes contentious issues with people who may see things differently and finding a solution that’s good for … [Read more...] about Lowell Leader, Stellar Researcher Jeff Hall Shines as Dark Skies Champion
Could Pluto Become Arizona’s State Planet?
The rattlesnake is Arizona’s official state reptile, petrified wood is the state fossil, and the bola (or bolo) tie is the state neckwear. Now, if Arizona lawmaker Justin Wilmeth gets his way, Arizona will become the first state to boast an official planet: Pluto. Wilmeth, a republican state representative for District 15, introduced the bill into the House on Jan. 17. Last April, he was part of a legislative delegation that toured the construction site of Lowell Observatory’s … [Read more...] about Could Pluto Become Arizona’s State Planet?
Flagstaff Star Party, Celebration of the Night Explore Archeoastronomy
With more than 20 telescopes and hosts from across the region, the free annual Flagstaff Star Party is offering three nights of stargazing into Northern Arizona’s starry autumn nights, along with rich presentations tapping into the global cultural wealth of our night sky heritage. The world’s most accessible star party in the first International Dark Sky City is scheduled for 6-10 p.m., Thursday through Saturday, Sept. 22-24, at Buffalo Park, occurring during Celebration of the Night – a … [Read more...] about Flagstaff Star Party, Celebration of the Night Explore Archeoastronomy
Governor Promoting Community Colleges, Desalination, Broadband Expansion, Non-Profits
Arizona Governor Doug Ducey assured Flagstaff area businesspeople he was not on a good-bye tour when he spoke during the Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting on Friday, Feb. 18. “The state of the state is strong. Our manufacturing sector is on fire,” he said, vowing to leave Arizona stronger than he found it when he took office in 2015. He said Arizona is building a new economy that is not relying so heavily on tourism and construction. “We are no longer a fly-over state. … [Read more...] about Governor Promoting Community Colleges, Desalination, Broadband Expansion, Non-Profits
Lowell Observatory Reopening General Admission
Lowell Observatory will reopen general admission on Monday, Nov. 15, with new guest protocols to keep guests and staff safe from COVID-19. Guests will again be able to visit day or night to explore the historic campus, look through state-of-the-art telescopes, and learn about the stories of the stars and our place in the universe. This will conclude a period of 20 months during which the observatory has been closed or offered only limited programming because of COVID-19-related health … [Read more...] about Lowell Observatory Reopening General Admission
Celebrate Flagstaff’s Dark Skies with the Flagstaff Star Party
Jupiter, Venus, and Cygnus the Swan flying south through the Milky Way are among the stars expected to shine at the annual Flagstaff Star Party, a three-night event, 6 – 10 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 30 through Saturday, Oct. 2, at Buffalo Park! Professional and amateur telescope hosts from around the region will guide residents and visitors through the universe in the free outdoor event hosted by the Flagstaff Dark Skies Coalition. Guests are encouraged to bring their binoculars for the Binocular … [Read more...] about Celebrate Flagstaff’s Dark Skies with the Flagstaff Star Party
