We hope this finds you well and safe and that you have enjoyed spending time in the great outdoors both stargazing and enjoying daytime activities! Fortunately for the Earth to Sky Park, home of the Bare Dark Sky Observatory (BDSO), construction has been able to continue the last couple of months. We are thrilled to say that by the time the Observatory reopens for community viewing nights, the hardscaping project surrounding the Observatory will be complete. We are currently halfway finished!
For those of you who have been to the BDSO, you may remember that the hillside leading up to the Observatory was eroding away and the steep pathway to the building was unattractive and difficult to maneuver in the dark. It will look very different when you return! As you can see in the photos, there are beautiful stone steps and gravel pathways leading up to the building. Construction unearthed gorgeous bedrock full of mica that shimmers in the moonlight adding to the magic of the Observatory. In addition to the improved paths and steps, eight telescope viewing stations are scattered around the exterior of the Observatory so you can bring your own telescope or astrophotography equipment to view the night sky even when the Observatory is closed. We plan on hosting star parties during which 10 telescopes will be set up at the viewing stations looking at 10 different celestial objects.
