International Dark Sky Discovery Center
Opening Early 2027The international centerpiece for inspiring future scientists and people of all ages to understand how important dark skies are for the well-being of humans, plants, and animals, and for opening a window to the observable universe.
Under Sunlight You See the World. Under Dark Skies You See the Universe.
Located in the World’s 17th International Dark Sky Community, the Center celebrates the beauty of Arizona’s protected night skies and works to educate, inspire, and promote their preservation.
The Inspiration Behind the IDSDC
Designed for visitors of all ages, the Center combines science, exploration, and inspiration through immersive exhibits, engaging educational experiences, and one of the region’s premier astronomy destinations.
Behind the Scenes Telescope Installation
Our Dark Sky Observatory’s 27.5 inch PlaneWave telescope is the largest in the Greater Phoenix area and capable of research, astrophotography, and public viewing. Take a behind the scenes look at the telescope installation process.
The future is ours to create.
The sciences are ours to teach.
The next generation is ours to inspire.
Human health, nocturnal animals, and dark skies are ours to protect.
“With its STEM education focus and a mission consistent with the Smithsonian’s Lights Out exhibit, the International Dark Sky Discovery Center will serve as a symbol that our state leads the way in protecting our starlit skies for future generations.”
KATIE HOBBS, GOVERNOR, STATE OF ARIZONA
“Arizona’s unique night sky experiences are part of what make it a great place to live and to visit. The International Dark Sky Discovery Center will serve along with the Lowell Observatory, Kitt Peak, and many others in promoting education, tourism, and protecting our starlit skies for future generations.”
RUBEN GALLEGO, U.S. SENATOR, ARIZONA
“As an engineer and former astronaut, I am excited to support the International Dark Sky Discovery Center’s mission to provide STEM education programs that will help inspire the next generation in the pursuit of space sciences and exploration."
MARK KELLY, U.S. SENATOR, ARIZONA
“The International Dark Sky Discovery Center will provide students and adults from around the Valley and the world the invaluable experience of discovering the wonders of the Universe. I am happy to support such a fantastic endeavor.”
THOMAS GALVIN, CHAIRMAN, MARICOPA COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
“The International Dark Sky Discovery Center is an exciting opportunity for students and amateur star-gazers alike. The Center will be another tremendous asset to keep our state at the forefront of STEM education.”
DOUG DUCEY, FORMER GOVERNOR, STATE OF ARIZONA
“I am pleased to see that Fountain Hills may be expanding our Dark Sky community with the proposed International Dark Sky Discovery Center. This unique learning facility would be great for expanding STEM learning opportunities and would benefit all of Arizona.”
DAVID SCHWEIKERT, U.S. CONGRESSMAN, ARIZONA
“The International Dark Sky Discovery Center will be a STEM centerpiece for educating people about the space sciences and the importance of dark skies to humans, plants, and animals.”
JOHN KAVANAGH, ARIZONA STATE SENATOR
“Arizona State University looks forward to developing a collaborative relationship with the International Dark Sky Discovery Center.”
MICHAEL CROW, PRESIDENT, ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY
“The International Dark Sky Discovery Center in Fountain Hills highlights Arizona’s leadership in innovation and commitment to protecting our unparalleled access to the night skies.”
KYRSTEN SINEMA, FORMER U.S. SENATOR, ARIZONA
“Educating people about the wonders of the night sky and the importance of preserving dark skies is a goal we share with the International Dark Sky Discovery Center.”
RUSKIN HARTLEY, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, DARKSKY INTERNATIONAL
“Arizona’s continued success and recognition as the fastest growing technology community in the U.S. can be traced back to our roots in space-related industries including astronomy and aerospace and defense. It’s critical that we continue to support development and innovation in this industry through local organizations like the International Dark Sky Discovery Center.”
STEVEN ZYLSTRA, PRESIDENT & CEO, ARIZONA TECHNOLOGY COUNCIL
“The mission of public astronomy is inspiration, contemplation, and education. We look forward to welcoming the International Dark Sky Discovery Center to this important public service.”
MARK PINE, DEPUTY DIRECTOR, GRIFFITH OBSERVATORY, LOS ANGELES
“The International Dark Sky Discovery Center will be a unique regional asset, providing an incredible platform for STEM education and workforce development in Arizona.”
CHRIS CAMACHO, PRESIDENT & CEO, GREATER PHOENIX ECONOMIC COUNCIL
“A new sense of vitality and excitement will be brought to Fountain Hills by the International Dark Sky Discovery Center. This state-of-the-art science center dedicated to inspiring future scientists and people of all ages will truly benefit our town and the astronomy state of Arizona.”
GERRY FRIEDEL, MAYOR, TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS
“Dark skies are an increasingly important part of Arizona’s tourism offerings and Fountain Hills admirably represents our state’s dedication to astronomical research, discovery and stargazing culture at the Smithsonian. We’re excited to continue welcoming visitors inspired by this amazing exhibit to experience all our state – and night skies – have to offer.”
LISA URIAS, FORMER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, ARIZONA OFFICE OF TOURISM
“As the 17th International Dark Sky Community in the world, our Town is a perfect location for the International Dark Sky Discovery Center and we strongly support the collaborative effort.”
GINNY DICKEY, FORMER MAYOR, TOWN OF FOUNTAIN HILLS
“Dark sky tourism is a major draw for the State of Arizona, and we believe the International Dark Sky Discovery Center will be an extraordinary asset for our state.”
DEBBIE JOHNSON, FORMER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, ARIZONA OFFICE OF TOURISM
“The Fountain Hills Chamber supports the development of the International Dark Sky Discovery Center. We believe it will be a wonderful attraction for residents and visitors and a great benefit for local businesses.”
BETSY LaVOIE, PRESIDENT & CEO, FOUNTAIN HILLS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
“Dark skies are critical to Arizona’s multibillion-dollar astronomy industry, and we appreciate the efforts in Fountain Hills to maintain and promote dark skies in the Phoenix area and statewide.”
JEFFREY HALL, FORMER DIRECTOR, LOWELL OBSERVATORY, FLAGSTAFF
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