Support Statements

“A man must rise above the earth, for only then will fully understand the world in which he lives.”
– Socrates

“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”

U.S. Senator Mark Kelly

“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.”

U.S. Senator Kyrsten Sinema

“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.”

U.S. Congressman David Schweikert

“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”

Governor Doug Ducey

State of 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

“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 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

Executive Director, Arizona Office of Tourism

“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, International Dark Sky Association

“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

Director, Lowell Observatory, Flagstaff

“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

“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

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

CEO, Fountain Hills Chamber of Commerce