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", Oracle State Park, Saturday, 11 February 2017

The "Adventures with the Moon" began with a colorful sunset at Oracle State Park:

The Oracle Dark Skies Committee had an information table with brochures on Light Pollution:

After the sky became dark enough, and even with some clouds in the sky, Park visitors arriving for the event were treated to some views of the planets Venus and Mars and the rising Moon through telescopes provided by the Saddlebrooke SkyGazers Club:

(that's Venus at the top of the photo)


(the rising 1 day past Full Moon)


(telephoto photograph of the rising Moon in clouds)

Oracle State Park volunteer Dick Boyer presenting his "Adventures with the Moon" to Park visitors on the Kannally Ranch House patio:

Demonstrating how the phases of the Moon occur:

"Traveling" to the Moon:

(Dick giving the "prelaunch" briefing)


(yes, that's the real Moon in the cloudy sky)

Arriving at the "Moon":

Planting the American Flag on the "Moon":

The "Lunar Module" on the "Moon":

Visitors returned from the "Moon" and enjoyed s'mores on the Kannally Ranch House patio and more telescope viewing of the Moon and other night sky objects. Even with clouds in the sky everyone had a great time learning about our Moon, "visiting" it, and looking through the telescopes.

Many thanks to Dick Boyer for his "Adventures with the Moon" and to Saddlebrooke SkyGazers Club members Don Cain, Chris Mobley, and Richard Spitzer for the telescope viewing support.

Photos by Mike Weasner, Oracle Dark Skies Committee.

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

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