Since its formation in April 2014, the Oracle Dark Skies Committee has been attending various events around Oracle and Pinal County to talk about its work to have Oracle State Park designated as an "International Dark Sky Park". The Committee also does public outreach on the effects of Light Pollution and how everyone can help reduce the problem and save money as well. Selected past events are mentioned here.

If you would like a Committee member to talk to your company, organization, or group of local residents, please contact Mike Weasner (520-289-3402 or mweasner@mac.com).

"Adventures with the Moon" Evening Interpretive Program, Oracle State Park, 23 January 2016

The Moon, Earth’s only natural satellite, with its mystery and intrigue continues to provide interest to Earth’s humans. Oracle State Park volunteer, Dick Boyer, took Park visitors to the Moon and back through interactive family friendly activities and displays. Oracle State Park is an ideal location for such programs, as described in this new Welcome sign at the Park:

Telescope viewing, hosted by the Oracle Dark Skies Committee, had been planned beginning at sunset, however cloudy skies prevented that. This is the view to the east at sunset showing where the Moon would rise over the Galiuro Mountains and San Pedro River Valley:

But the cloudy skies did make for a beautiful sunset at the Park:

Rising Moon obscured by clouds:

The clouds did not detract from the excellent evening program presented by Dick Boyer, with assistance by his wife Dorothy:

The Full Moon did make a brief appearance during the evening:

Visitors were able to experience how the phases of the Moon occur:

Then everyone took a "trip" to the Moon. The miles "traveled" was shown on a very long tape measure.

Upon arrival at the Moon, the American Flag was planted:

Here is the American Flag and our Lunar Lander on the surface of the "Moon":

Following the trip to the Moon, the "astronauts" enjoyed smores under the winter sky at the upper patio fire pit:

A pleasant end to a wonderful evening at Oracle State Park!

Photos by Mike Weasner, Oracle Dark Skies Committee.

Past Events - 2016
Past Events - 2015
Past Events - 2014

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