The National Park Service and the Astronomers of Verde Valley hosted held a star party at Tuzigoot National Monument to explore the skies. The star party began with a presentation by Sebra Choe, Camp Verde Economic Development Specialist. Camp Verde recently was designated as the 20th International Dark-Sky Community. Ms. Coe spoke about the process of getting the designation and why dark skies matter. Joanne Kendrick, Chair of the Keep Sedona Beautiful Dark-Sky Committee also spoke about her involvement in the dark-sky effort around the Greater Sedona Area. Ms. Kendrick also spoke about the effects of light pollution; how we can reduce light pollution; and the benefits of a nighttime environment.
After the presentations, the attendees looked through the astronomers’ telescopes for views of the planets and other celestial objects.