Executive summary
Opening in Early 2027!
What will make the non-profit 501(c)3 multi-functional International Dark Sky Discovery Center (IDSDC) unique?
No facility in the world focuses on how important dark skies are to the well-being of humans, plants, and animals, and for opening a window to the observable universe.
Five major components are committed to this mission:
DARK SKY OBSERVATORY with the largest telescope in the Greater Phoenix area
CRAIG AND RUTH GIMBEL PLANETARIUM with state-of-the-art tilted dome technology
INSPIRATION THEATER with an LED video screen and 150 tiered seats
NIGHT SKY EXHIBIT HALL with engaging, interactive educational displays
EINSTEIN EXPLORATION STATION with creative, hands-on learning experiences and challenges
Science-based education and experiential displays will establish IDSDC as an international centerpiece for supporting the growing worldwide interest in dark sky preservation. This approach will serve as a portal to better understanding astronomy, the space program, the universe, and life on earth. Children and adults alike will be introduced to and awed by the wonders of the universe.
The non-profit IDSDC will fulfill its educational mission by supporting STEM programs and fostering partnerships with Arizona State University, area community colleges, and high schools. The facility will offer programs and experiences to inspire, educate, and stir imaginations. Additionally, it will address the rapidly growing interest in astrotourism, thus serving as an educational and experiential attraction for Arizona and beyond.
The anticipated uses of the facility are wide-ranging. They include working partnerships with other institutions, lectures, public viewing and research in the observatory, video productions, star parties, tours, visits, receptions, and much more.
Mission
The International Dark Sky Discovery Center is a nonprofit 501(c)3 corporation
committed to a science-based focus on four main mission categories:
EDUCATION
Provide STEM education experiences to students interested in the sciences.
RESEARCH
Offer the Dark Sky Observatory’s research capabilities to university students.
DARK SKY PRESERVATION
Emphasize issues related to human health, wildlife conservation, nocturnal pollinators, sustainability, and night sky observation.
TOURISM
Serve as an international attraction for visitors of all ages.
Support Statements
“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
“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 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
“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
“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
“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
“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
“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
“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
“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
“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
“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
“Arizona State University looks forward to developing a collaborative relationship with the International Dark Sky Discovery Center.”
DR. MICHAEL CROW, PRESIDENT, ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY
(CLICK HERE for full statement from Dr. Michael Crow)
“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 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
“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.”
“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
“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.”
DR. JEFFREY HALL, FORMER DIRECTOR, LOWELL OBSERVATORY, FLAGSTAFF