Arizona offers some of the most prolific views of the night sky in the country. However, our view of the Milky Way is increasingly dimmed by light pollution. If left unchecked, we might not be able to see the stars anymore 20 years from now.
Sam Miller will introduce DarkSky International and the organization’s efforts to protect the night sky. He will show us the wonders of astronomy and how nighttime light affects the natural world, including wildlife and humans. His presentation will also include practical tips on how we can all help keep our nighttime environment healthy and pristine.
Sam’s presentation will be followed by brief reports on local efforts in Apache Junction and Gold Canyon. Weather permitting, the Superstition Mountain Astronomical League will provide telescopes for an exciting guided tour of the stars.
Sam Miller is an Advocate with DarkSky International and Vice Chair of the Board of Directors, DarkSky Southern Arizona Chapter. In this role, he works to restore the nighttime environment and protect communities and wildlife from the harmful effects of light pollution through outreach, advocacy, and conservation. From his home in Tucson, he travels throughout the state to provide guidance on outdoor lighting regulations and informational presentations on the night sky, astronomy, and the natural world to HOAs, schools, nature groups, state and national parks, and county and municipal governments. Sam is a career pilot and avionics engineer, and an amateur astronomer. His hobby is astrophotography (see cover photo).
Apache Junction Multigenerational Center, Rooftop Fitness Deck
Virtual Attendance:
https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/21500111257295?p=VH3dt9jZFZ4AAm7EZR
This presentation is part of SALT’s 2025-26 SALT Speaker Series to be held monthly on the 2nd Wednesday in collaboration with the Apache Junction Parks and Recreation Department. The Superstition Area Land Trust (SALT) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to conserve the natural Sonoran Desert open space surrounding the Superstition Wilderness Area.
