As the Valley of the Sun has grown to a sprawling, sun-drenched metropolis, we are quietly losing our magnificent and unique dark skies. The Grand Canyon state has been a magnet for professional and amateur astronomers for over a century, yet places in which to view the wonders of the universe with the naked eye are dwindling. City lights that shine 24/7 create what scientists call "light pollution" and can begin to obscure what lies above us. Light pollution also impacts wildlife, like migrating birds, as well as human health. The impact of artificial light is a very interesting study in itself.
There are still many places in Arizona where you can experience a truly black night sky. The International Dark Sky Association based in Tucson provides a wealth of information about the benefits of our night skies, as well as lists of locations throughout the world where dark skies prevail.
Oracle State Park, Grand Canyon National Park, Wupatki National Monument and Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument are four designated "dark sky" parks in Arizona, and many towns strive to minimize unnecessary light. The area to the east of Phoenix and Scottsdale still offers some amazing sky gazing opportunities, especially during the new moon.
January 17, 2018 is the next new moon, meaning that it is on the same side of the earth as the sun so it won't be visible. New moon nights are the best nights to get out and search for constellations, planets and even galaxies. A good pair of binoculars help, but to start, just scan the sky for patterns and objects. Phone apps like Skyview, Night Sky, or Night Sky Tools can help you identify the constellations and names of the heavenly bodies.
Enjoy tracking the moon and its phases throughout the month and be sure to calendar upcoming sky events.
References and Resources
International Dark Sky Association
Arizona Republic - Where are the Darkest Places in Arizona?
timeanddate.com - Where is the Moon? (in real time)
Image - Public Domain Pictures
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