As the construction of International Dark Sky Discovery Center develops, so does the interest in collaborative opportunities with Arizona State University.
Although ASU President Michael Crow was unable to attend, he prepared remarks that I shared at the groundbreaking event on April 8. Because those remarks so clearly describe the mission and the importance of the Discovery Center, the remainder of this letter are his comments in their entirety.
“I want to offer my congratulations on the official groundbreaking of the International Dark Sky Discovery Center. This moment marks the physical genesis of a significant, globally impactful site for advancing our understanding of dark skies, and ultimately, our preservation of this important resource.
At Arizona State University, we are grateful to all those who have worked so hard to bring this center into being, and we look forward to collaborating with the International Dark Sky Discovery Center in the years to come. In particular, we are excited by opportunities for students and researchers in our School of Earth and Space Exploration to utilize the Dark Sky Observatory and our School of Life Sciences to assist with research and education related to the effects of night-time light on animal—including human—health and behavior.
The International Dark Sky Discovery Center holds vast potential for generating scientific breakthroughs, connecting individuals with the STEM fields, inspiring and empowering learners of all ages, and moving us all— and our relationship with the cosmos and natural world—forward. Again, I offer my congratulations on this momentous occasion, as well as ASU’s expression of interest in continuing to work with the Dark Sky Center to educate its visitors about the wonders of astronomy and our night skies.” – ASU President Michael Crow.
Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at AzOpinions@iniusa.org.
