Oracle Dark Skies Committee

Past Events

Updated: 22 July 2017

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).

South Korean Dark Skies Delegation Visit, Oracle State Park, Friday, 21 July 2017

In January 2015, Oracle State Park hosted a South Korean Dark Skies Delegation Visit. They had wanted to see an IDA "International Dark Sky Park" (IDSP) and learn what was required from a Park whose application had been successful. Their efforts resulted in Yeongyang Firefly Eco Park becoming an IDSP later in 2015.

On Friday, 21 July 2017, Oracle State Park once again hosted members of a Dark Skies Delegation, this time with members of the staff of Yeongyang Firefly Eco Park, including the Manager of Yeongyang Firefly Eco Park, Jung Young Kil. Professor Won-Kil Jeong, from Daegu Haany University, who we called "David", returned as the translator. Here is the historic Kannally Ranch House and an Arizona Cardinal awaiting our guests:

The delegation was welcomed to Oracle State Park by new Park Manager Vince Micallef and Rangers Tony and Jennifer:

They checked out the "tiles" on the Upper Patio:

Ranger Jennifer conducted a tour of the Ranch House and Patios:

The delegation enjoyed the view from the Ranch House:

The two park managers shared a moment with local plant life:

Gifts were exchanged:

The delegation also toured the location of the upcoming campsites:

They were thrilled to see a live Road Runner:

The view of the Kannally Ranch House and distant mountains from the campsites:

Ranger Gary discussed plants and animals seen at Oracle State Park:

As the delegation left Oracle State Park we stopped by the Main Gate sign:

Everyone agreed that their visit was enjoyable and that Yeongyang Firefly Eco Park and Oracle State Park should someday become "Sister Parks" due to the similarities in their missions.

Photos by Mike Weasner, Oracle Dark Skies Committee.

Previous Events

Full Moon Night Hike, Oracle State Park, Saturday, 8 July 2017

View the report.

Live Music and Star Party, Oracle State Park, Saturday, 24 June 2017

View the report.

"Arizona's Night Skies: Past, Present, and Future", Oracle State Park, Saturday, 20 May 2017

View the report.

Open House & Star Party at Oracle State Park, Saturday, 29 April 2017

View the report.

"Family Reading Night", Mountain Vista School, Oracle, Tuesday, 21 March 2017

View the report.

"International Dark Sky Park" Celebration & Star Party, Oracle State Park, Saturday, 18 March 2017