Astronomer in Residence

 
Logo, circular graphic with striped reddish cliffs on left and right, a dark blue river below, and a starry sky above. Text reads, "Grand Canyon Astronomer in Residence, a Grand Canyon Conservancy Program."
 

About the Program

The award-winning Astronomer-in-Residence (ASTiR) Program at Grand Canyon National Park is presented by Grand Canyon Conservancy. The program offers astronomers, both amateur and professional; educators, scientists, visual and performing artists, and writers, the opportunity to practice and share their discipline under one of the most pristine night skies in the United States. Through artwork and educational outreach, the ASTiR inspires visitors to see the values of dark night skies, spreads awareness about the threats of light pollution, and explores society’s complex relationships with natural darkness.

The program is similar to the Artist-in-Residence program hosted by various national parks. The park hosts the chosen applicant on-site for a short-term residency, usually between 3-6 weeks. The difference is that the primary focus is on night skies, astronomy, and the various disciplines studying natural darkness. Not only are artists encouraged to apply, ASTiR also invites educators, advocates, scientists, and other outreach disciplines to share their expert knowledge, inspiration, and equipment with park visitors.

 
Wotan's Throne in the foreground. The Milky Way peaks out through a thunderstorm. Lightning strikes nearby.
The Grand Canyon Night Sky Residency Program offers astronomers, both amateur and professional; educators, scientists, visual and performing artists, and writers, the opportunity to practice and share their discipline under one of the most pristine night skies in the United States.

Photo courtesy of Project SKYGLOW

 

How to Apply

We are seeking professional astronomers working at a high level in their discipline who can give new insights and focus to Grand Canyon and the surrounding communities as an on-site resident astronomer at Grand Canyon National Park. To apply for a residency, visit Grand Canyon Conservancy's website >

 
A silhouette of a person sitting in front of the Milky Way.

Night Skies and Astronomy at Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is located high on the Colorado Plateau, far from the lights of large cities, in the dry desert southwest. Combined with the clean air and clear skies, Grand Canyon National Park protects some of the most pristine night skies in the United States.

In 2019, Grand Canyon National Park was certified as an International Dark Sky Park by the International Dark Sky Association. Later that year, the park received the award for International Dark Sky Place of the Year. These distinctions were the culmination of a long history of night sky appreciation at Grand Canyon National Park.

Our process to retrofit thousands of light fixtures in the park in order to achieve International Dark Sky Park status was unprecedented in scale. Combined with our six million visitors per year, the park has become one of the largest, most complex, International Dark Sky Parks in the world. We have a mission to preserve the night skies for the enjoyment of this and future generations. Through support of the park’s non-profit partner, Grand Canyon Conservancy, we continue these efforts through the Astronomer-in-Residence Program.
 
 
A wooden house with the Milky Way in the background.
Astronomer in Residence selectees stay in the historic Verkamps Residence, overlooking the rim of Grand Canyon.

Photo by Astronomer in Residence Alumni, Imma Barrera

Accommodations

The chosen applicant will stay in the historic Verkamps Residence, overlooking the rim of the Grand Canyon. Bedware, kitchenware, and furnishings are supplied. An honorarium is provided, as well as food and travel stipends.


Selection Process

A panel of park rangers, Conservancy employees, and night sky advocates will choose the resident based on artistic or educational merit, their Statement of Purpose, and the need for a well-balanced diversity of residencies. A contract must be signed in order to begin the residency.


Questions?

Email us.

Last updated: May 14, 2024

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

PO Box 129
Grand Canyon, AZ 86023

Phone:

928-638-7779

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