Fountain Hills International Dark Sky Discovery Center

Fountain Hills International Dark Sky Discovery Center

In a world where over 80% of the population can no longer see the Milky Way from their homes, Fountain Hills, Arizona, stands out as a haven for stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts. Located conveniently near a major metropolitan area, this community offers residents and visitors an extraordinary opportunity to marvel at the night sky and witness the breathtaking beauty of the Milky Way right from their backyards.

Commitment to Dark Sky Preservation

Fountain Hills has long been committed to protecting its dark skies, supported by a comprehensive lighting code. These efforts culminated in January 2018 when the town was designated as the world’s 17th International Dark Sky Community. This recognition is a testament to the hard work of local advocates like Joe and Nancy Bill and the Fountain Hills Dark Sky Association, whose vision continues to inspire astronomical exploration and education.

The International Dark Sky Discovery Center (IDSDC)

The International Dark Sky Discovery Center (IDSDC) is poised to become a pivotal center for astronomical discovery, capitalizing on Fountain Hills' exceptional dark sky status.

Recent Milestone: Dome Installation

On December 23, a major milestone was achieved with the installation of the 38-ton, steel-ribbed, plywood-wrapped dome onto the foundation pillars of the IDSDC. This impressive structure is home to the Craig and Ruth Gimbel Hyperspace Planetarium, featuring:

• A 12-meter diameter projection dome tilted at a 20-degree angle.
• 65 comfortable seats for an immersive viewing experience.
• Six high-definition projectors for stunning visuals.
• A state-of-the-art audio system that enhances every show.

A Journey of Vision and Collaboration

The path to establishing the IDSDC has been a nine-year journey fueled by community support and visionary philanthropy. A generous donor provided telescopes to local libraries, encouraging early engagement with astronomy, while a significant seven-figure donation secured naming rights for the planetarium.

Statewide and Local Support

The project has received crucial backing from local and state leaders, including State Senator John Kavanagh, who facilitated grant funding through the Arizona State Legislature. Arizona State University’s involvement has also been instrumental, with President Michael Crow expressing excitement about the collaboration and its research potential.

Inspiring Future Generations

The IDSDC is designed to ignite a passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) in future generations. By welcoming visitors of all ages, the center will help cultivate a love for dark skies and the wonders of astronomy.

Fountain Hills’ dedication to preserving dark skies and providing groundbreaking educational opportunities ensures that the beauty of the night sky remains accessible to everyone.

Stay updated on the latest news regarding the International Dark Sky Discovery Center by visiting darkskycenter.org.