Get ready to witness the birth of a celestial marvel as the Snow King Observatory takes its rightful place atop Wyoming’s majestic Snow King Mountain. The anticipation reaches a fever pitch as the dream, tirelessly championed by Wyoming Stargazing and supported by Snow King Mountain Resort LLC., nears its stunning completion, bringing the cosmos closer to avid stargazers like never before.

Building the Snow king Observatory

Envisioned by the brilliant architect Jakub Galczynski of FarmerPayne Architects, the Snow King Observatory and Planetarium shine as the crown jewels of the Snow King Phase 2 Master Plan, recently approved by the Town of Jackson. With the resounding endorsement from the United States Forest Service (USFS) following their meticulous Environmental Impact Assessment in 2021, the stage is set for an extraordinary astronomical adventure.

Amidst the flurry of activity, construction is in full swing atop the majestic summit of Snow King Mountain, building the excitement towards the grand unveiling in the upcoming fall of 2023. Standing tall and proud, the Observatory boasts a remarkable 24′ AstroHaven dome that will house an awe-inspiring 1.0-meter PlaneWave telescope. This cutting-edge marvel will stake its claim among the world’s largest telescopes, captivating the public with its unrivaled outreach capabilities—an emblem of astronomical exploration like no other.

The benefits of the Snow king Observatory

But that’s not all the Snow King Observatory has to offer. Prepare to be astounded by the state-of-the-art Spitz 8-meter digital planetarium, designed to accommodate 30 awestruck individuals. Immerse yourself in captivating educational experiences within the classroom/theater space, while interactive galleries brimming with enthralling exhibits kindle curiosity in visitors of all ages. With event spaces available, the Observatory aims to become an iconic center of scientific learning in the vast expanse of the Rocky Mountain West.

Driven by a steadfast commitment to ignite passion for astronomy, Wyoming Stargazing has set an ambitious goal to impact one million students through both in-person and virtual programming by 2030. With the Snow King Observatory nearing completion, their vision is poised to become a resounding reality. This celestial sanctuary will serve as the gateway to the wonders of the cosmos, captivating minds and inspiring generations to come.

Prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey and mark your calendars. Soon, you will have the privilege of witnessing the universe in ways never before imagined, as the Snow King Observatory ascends to the heavens. Brace yourself as the realms of science and imagination merge in an awe-inspiring spectacle, ushering in a new era of extraordinary astronomical discovery.

While we eagerly await the completion of the new observatory, join us for a series of thrilling public programs to keep your excitement soaring. And if you have any questions or inquiries, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We would love to hear from you and share in your anticipation for this remarkable venture.

Embark on a transformative journey into the realm of astrophotography in the captivating landscapes of Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Let award-winning nature photographer, Mike Cavaroc, guide you through the intricacies of capturing the celestial wonders that adorn the night sky. This post invites you to delve into the mesmerizing world of astrophotography, providing insights into the incredible opportunities awaiting you in Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, along with essential tips to create awe-inspiring images.

Discover the Magic of Astrophotography with Mike Cavaroc. Immerse yourself in the expertise of Mike Cavaroc, a seasoned professional with a profound passion for astrophotography. With nearly 15 years of experience and an intimate understanding of Jackson Hole’s natural wonders, Mike has honed his skills and knowledge to capture the essence of this extraordinary region. As a wildlife safari guide and stargazing leader, he possesses invaluable insights into the behavior of wildlife and the techniques required to immortalize these moments. By joining Mike on this astrophotography adventure, you will gain an unparalleled understanding of the region and emerge with stunning images and cherished memories.

Unleash Your Astrophotographic Creativity:

Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks present a captivating backdrop for your astrophotography journey. These renowned destinations not only boast breathtaking landscapes but also provide a wealth of subjects to ignite your creativity. Whether you seek to capture the grace and power of wildlife, immortalize the grandeur of landscapes, or unveil the mysteries of the cosmos, these parks offer limitless opportunities to enhance your craft. With Mike Cavaroc as your mentor, these iconic settings become your personal classroom, empowering you to elevate your astrophotography skills and unleash your creative vision.

Astrophotography Instruction in Jackson Hole’s Heart:

Embrace the opportunity to explore astrophotography year-round in Jackson Hole, excluding Thursdays and Fridays. The program, priced at $700 for up to four individuals, ensures an intimate learning experience. Please note that gratuity, typically ranging from 10% to 20% of the total cost, is not included. Convenient pick-ups are available throughout the entire valley of Jackson Hole, ensuring easy access to the region’s natural wonders.

Essential Astrophotography Tips:

Preparing for a Night of Captivating Shots: Prepare for your astrophotography expedition by assembling the following essential equipment:

• A Digital SLR Camera with a removable lens
• Full Manual mode to exercise complete control over your settings
• A sturdy tripod for stability during long exposures
• A headlamp equipped with both red and white lights for convenient navigation
• Position a light cube with a remote approximately 10 feet away from your foreground object to enhance lighting effects.

Mastering Camera Settings:

Unlock the full potential of your astrophotography by configuring your camera settings as follows:

• Opt for a 30-second exposure time to capture the essence of light in the night sky.
• Set your ISO to 3200 to maximize the camera’s sensitivity to light.
• Select the lowest possible f-stop (widest aperture) to enable maximum light intake.

Choosing the Ideal Lens:

For remarkable astrophotographs, consider utilizing Rokinon lenses ranging from 14mm to 22mm. These manual lenses offer exceptional image quality and versatility, enabling you to capture the vastness of the celestial realm.

Crafting Striking Compositions: Elevate your astrophotography by mastering the art of composition:

• Experiment with light painting techniques, utilizing the white light from your headlamp or flashlight to accentuate specific elements within your frame.
• Embrace the enchanting effect of car headlights, which can add a touch of magic and intrigue to

Book Time with Mike

the cosmos are ready for your camera, book your time with Mike. master your Astrophotography while capturing amazing pictures. We welcome any and all questions if you have any, please feel free to contact us!

If you’re searching for a wedding experience that will leave you and your guests in awe, consider an astronomy themed wedding in Jackson Hole. With the right planning and execution, your wedding can be a magical and unforgettable event that will have your guests talking for years to come.

The Ultimate Stargazing Event Packages in Jackson Hole

At our location in Jackson Hole, we provide stargazing event packages that are designed to make your astronomy themed wedding unforgettable. Our packages include everything from large telescopes and stargazing leaders to smaller telescopes and iPads with the StarWalk app. We also provide chairs, blankets, and our Night Sky Photo Package, which includes professional photographs of your special day under the stars.

An Educational and Unique Experience in Jackson Hole

Your astronomy themed wedding in Jackson Hole will not only be an unforgettable experience but also an educational one. Your guests will have the chance to learn about the constellations, planets, and the fascinating stories behind them. Our Stargazing Leaders will guide your guests through the night sky, answering questions and providing insight into the beauty of the stars.

Customizable Packages to Suit Your Needs in Jackson Hole

At our stargazing event packages in Jackson Hole, we understand that every wedding is unique. That’s why we offer customizable packages that allow you to choose the equipment and services that best suit your needs. Whether you’re planning an intimate wedding or a larger celebration, we have a package that will meet your requirements.

Creating Stunning Memories in Jackson Hole

Our Night Sky Photo Package in Jackson Hole is the perfect way to capture the beauty of your astronomy themed wedding. Our professional photographers will take stunning photos of the night sky and your special day, providing you with memories that will last a lifetime.

An astronomy themed wedding in Jackson Hole is a unique and unforgettable experience that you and your guests will talk about for years to come. At our location, we offer stargazing event packages with a range of customizable options to ensure your wedding is everything you’ve dreamed of and more. From the beauty of the night sky to the educational experience, an astronomy themed wedding in Jackson Hole is the perfect way to celebrate your special day. Contact us today to learn more about our packages and how we can make your dream wedding a reality.

Light pollution is a growing problem that is affecting communities around the world. The excessive and unnecessary use of artificial light is causing unwanted brightness and glare in the night sky, leading to a range of negative impacts on the environment. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons why we need to reduce light pollution and the benefits that it can bring to our communities.

Community Character

One of the primary reasons to reduce light pollution is that it can have a significant impact on the character of our communities. The night sky is a beautiful and awe-inspiring sight, and it has been an essential part of human culture for thousands of years. However, excessive artificial light can obscure the stars and constellations, robbing us of the opportunity to experience the wonder of a dark night sky. This is particularly true in urban and suburban areas, where the prevalence of streetlights, advertising lights, and other types of artificial illumination can create a permanent haze of light pollution.

Wildlife

Light pollution can also have a significant impact on wildlife. Many animals rely on natural darkness for survival, and the presence of excessive artificial light can disrupt their natural behavior patterns. For example, sea turtles rely on moonlight and starlight to navigate when they hatch and return to the ocean. However, bright artificial lights near the beach can disorient them, leading them to head in the wrong direction and die. Similarly, many species of birds use the stars to navigate during migration, and bright city lights can confuse and disorient them, causing them to collide with buildings.

Human Health

Another important reason to reduce light pollution is the impact that it can have on human health. Exposure to artificial light at night can disrupt our circadian rhythms, leading to a range of health problems such as sleep disorders, depression, and an increased risk of cancer. It can also create a sense of disorientation, as the constant presence of light can make it difficult for our brains to distinguish between day and night. This can be particularly problematic in urban areas, where bright lights can create a perpetual sense of daylight, even in the middle of the night.

Public Safety

Light pollution can also impact public safety. Bright lights can temporarily blind drivers and pedestrians, making it more difficult for them to navigate at night. In addition, the creation of dark shadows caused by bright lights can be used by criminals to hide and commit crimes. Reducing light pollution can, therefore, enhance public safety and make our communities more secure.

Wasted Energy

Finally, reducing light pollution is an important step in reducing our energy consumption and protecting the environment. Artificial light requires energy to produce, and much of this energy is wasted. This is because many lights are placed in areas where they are not needed, such as empty parking lots or unoccupied buildings. By reducing light pollution, we can reduce our energy consumption and help combat climate change.

In conclusion, light pollution is a growing problem that is affecting communities around the world. It can have a significant impact on community character, wildlife, human health, public safety, and energy consumption. Reducing light pollution is an important step that we can all take to protect our environment and enhance the quality of life for ourselves and future generations. Whether it is by using low-energy lighting, reducing the number of lights used in public areas, or simply turning off unnecessary lights, we can all play a role in reducing light pollution and creating a more sustainable and healthy future.

We have began efforts to save our night skies, thanks to the joined effort of the Community Foundation of Jackson Hole, the Teton Conservation District, 1% for the Tetons, the JH Travel and Tourism Board, Free Roaming Photography, the Teton Photography Group, the Jackson Hole Conservation Alliance, and many private donors we’re trying to help the Town of Jackson and Grand Teton National Park achieve Dark Sky Certification from the International Dark Sky Association. Learn more about our efforts here, and get involved if you can!

During the fall of 2017, Jackson was lucky enough to see a total solar eclipse. We were able to see a solar eclipse when the Moon was located directly in a straight line between the Sun and the Earth. an alignment is known as syzygy on August 21st, 2017. Here in Jackson the Moon blocked out the Sun’s light completely, leaving us in its dark shadow known as the umbra. The small area on the Earth that was inside the Umbra is known as the line of totality.

When the Moon completely covered the Sun here in Jackson, there was about two minutes and seventeen seconds of totality. The rest of North America was able to view a partial eclipse, this partial shadow is known as the penumbra. The total solar eclipse of 2017 was special for the folks living in the US because it was visible from the West Coast to the East Coast through 12 States. 

How to View an Eclipse

Even with the Sun partially covered by the Moon, it is still dangerous to look at directly. Looking directly at the sun during a solar eclipse can cause solar Retinopathy. In some cases the cells in the retina have been permanently damaged. Regular sunglasses are NOT adequate protection for viewing an eclipse. To view the sun you will need a special pair of glasses. These glasses will block out enough of the light to view the sun safely. Solar eclipse glasses are made with filters that block out more light, Regular sunglasses allow too much light to pass through.

There are some atmospheric changes that take place during a total solar eclipse that can be studied, such as temperature and associated wind speeds. There is some evidence that local weather has been changed by a total solar eclipse. Also, the Sun’s outer atmosphere, the corona, becomes visible to the unaided eye. Usually that part of the Sun’s atmosphere is obscured by the much brighter photosphere, which is the part of the Sun that we can see with our eyes. Even the most sophisticated instruments astronomers use today to study the corona, called coronagraphs, are unable to get a full view of the corona without the Moon’s assistance during a total solar eclipse.

When is the Next Solar Eclipse?

The next solar eclipse that will be visible from the United States will be October 14 2023. The next  total solar eclipse visible from the United States will be on April 4th 2024. This eclipse will be special because it will be the last time the line of totality passes over the united states until 2044. The line of totality will begin on the south pacific ocean and will pass over Mexico, United States and Canada. 

As we approach the upcoming solar eclipses we will announce any viewing events we might hold so please check back with us. You don’t have to wait for a special event to enjoy the night stars at night. We are always holding public and private stargazing tours. If you have any questions about what we do, comments or anything you’d like to share, please contact us. We want to hear from you!

Add viewing the universe to your list of things to do in Jackson hole. You’ll leave our programs with a new understanding of the Universe and a sense of how you are connected to the Cosmos.  We offer year-round Private Stargazing and Photography Tours at your convenience. Let us come to your private residence or bring you to a dark sky location within Grand Teton National Park. We’ll set up one of our large telescopes and entertain you and your guests by showing you all that the extraordinary night skies of Jackson Hole have to offer! You’ll get personal attention from our knowledgeable stargazing leaders, bringing the secrets of the universe closer to you and your guests.

Reasons Jackson hole is one of the best places for stargazing

High Elevation

The high elevation in Jackson Hole (6,500ft on the valley floor where we stargaze) means that you’re looking through much less atmosphere than at sea level. That makes the night sky that much clearer!

Big Telescopes

We’ll have a big telescope in use during our stargazing programs. That means we can collect a ton of light from distant objects, allowing you to be able to see galaxies millions of light years away!

Predictable Weather

The low humidity and predictable weather in Jackson Hole, especially in the summer, means that we have lots of clear night skies. We rarely have to cancel a stargazing program in the summer because of bad weather.

Dark Skies

Jackson Hole, the valley where the town of Jackson resides, is mostly protected, undeveloped public land. That means there is relatively little light pollution, allowing you to see thousands of stars on moonless nights, the arms of the Milky Way Galaxy and so much more.

Stargazing Leaders

Wyoming Stargazing employs knowledgeable and enthusiastic astronomy educators for our Stargazing Leaders. That means they not only have a huge amount of knowledge of the night sky, but are also very good at explaining the complicated details about what you are looking at.

The proceeds from our private stargazing programs allow us to offer inexpensive programming in public schools, to offer free public programs throughout our community, and to Save Our Night Skies. We strongly recommend booking your stargazing program at the beginning of your trip. That way if we need to reschedule because of bad weather we have a better opportunity to do so. We encourage you to contact us with any questions you may have

This year we are focusing our end of the year appeal on our JEDI in STEM Mentorship & Scholarship Program to get Opportunity Youth into STEM!

Last Thrusday Dr. Sam and Dr. Mike were invited to do a Virtual Stargazing Program with Astronomy Prof. Brian Keating and Tony Darnell of Deep Astronomy. We had a bit of technical diffuclties at the beginning, but we ended up having a great program over all. You can watch the entire program by clicking on the following YouTube link.

We’d also greatly appreciate it if you clicked here and subscribed to the Wyoming Stargazing YouTube Channel! Our goal is to have over 1,000 subscribers.