This event is free and open to the public, but pre-registration is required https://observatories.eventbrite.com. 

Flagstaff is the world's first International Dark Sky City and home to two major observatories, but light pollution continues to threaten the night. Development is extending into areas near the Naval Observatory, and continued growth and addition of white LED lighting in Flagstaff and throughout the State is affecting all of Arizona. In Flagstaff, despite state-of-the-art lighting ordinances, poor lighting is too frequently installed without permit or review by local planning departments.

The observatories and dark sky advocates are taking notice. The U.S. Naval Observatory (USNO), located just five miles west of Flagstaff, is a dark-sky site for optical and near-infrared astronomy. USNO has determined that if there is a brightening of Flagstaff's dark skies of just 10% over current conditions its critical mission cannot be maintained. Lowell Observatory operates dark-sky sites on Anderson Mesa and near Happy Jack west and south of Flagstaff. Both sites are being exposed to increasing light pollution from regional and even statewide development.

Participants in the forum will be asked to contribute ideas and perspectives for how to preserve the region’s dark skies and the future of its observatories.

Presenters will include:

Dan Folke, AICP, Interim Community Development Director for the City of Flagstaff

Dr. Jeffrey Hall, Director of Lowell Observatory

Julie Pastrick, President of the Greater Flagstaff Area Chamber of Commerce

Dr. Paul Shankland, Director of the US Naval Observatory Flagstaff Station

Dr. Michael West, Astronomer and Deputy Director of Science at Lowell Observatory