Will Tonight Be a Starlit Spectacle? Your Guide to Stargazing in Colorado

As we gaze upward, the night sky offers an ever-changing canvas of cosmic wonder. In Boulder, Colorado, we're blessed with about 300 clear nights each year, making it a haven for stargazers. But what determines a perfect night for stargazing? Let's dive into the factors that make tonight an ideal (or not-so-ideal) time for celestial observation.

1. Weather Watching: The Stargazer's Habit

Weather is the gatekeeper of the night sky. Cloud cover can be the difference between a celestial spectacle and a starless night. At AstroTours.org, we consider Weather.gov our oracle. A cloud coverage of 30% or less is ideal, but anything above 60% usually leads us to recommend rescheduling. We keep a close eye on the sky and keep our clients informed about 24 hours before our programs.

2. Escaping the City Lights

The battle against light pollution is a constant struggle for astronomers. The darker the location, the more brilliant the night sky. Here in Boulder, we're fortunate to have dark sky spots away from urban lights, perfect for a rendezvous with the stars.

3. Moon Phases: A Celestial Calendar

Our lunar neighbor's brightness can overshadow the fainter stars. A new moon night is prime time for stargazing, offering a dark canvas for the stars to shine their brightest. Full moon nights, while beautiful, can limit your view of the wider cosmos.

4. Colorado’s Advantage: A Stargazer's Delight

Colorado's climate gifts us with approximately 300 clear nights annually. This statistic plays in favor of astronomy enthusiasts, offering numerous opportunities to explore the night sky.

5. Your Stargazing Starter Pack

• Dress for Success: Nights can be cooler than expected, so layered clothing is a must.

• Gazing Gear: While telescopes and binoculars are great, they aren't necessary to enjoy the stars. The naked eye can see plenty!

• Red Light District: Use red lights to maintain your night vision. This small detail can significantly enhance your stargazing experience.

6. Embark on a Guided Journey with AstroTours.org

New to stargazing or prefer guided experiences? Join us at AstroTours.org for a tailored night under the stars. We offer expert guidance, telescopes, and the perfect stargazing settings.

Colorado, offers a splendid backdrop for stargazing. Keep an eye on the weather, consider the moon phase, and seek out dark skies. And remember, a guided tour with AstroTours.org can elevate your stargazing experience to cosmic proportions.

Book Your Astronomical Adventure at AstroTours.org/book

Honoring a Legend: My Interview with ABC Australia about Greg Quicke's Paddle Out

I had the incredible honor of being featured in an interview with ABC Australia to commemorate the life and legacy of my dear friend and mentor, Greg Quicke, affectionately known as "Space Gandalf." The article, "Hundreds gather on Cable Beach to pay tribute to Broome astronomer, tour guide, and TV star Greg Quicke," by Mya Kordic captures the heartfelt tribute that took place on Cable Beach in Broome, where Greg’s family, friends, and the community came together to celebrate his extraordinary life.

The article can be found here: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-07-06/hundreds-gather-farewell-broome-astronomer-greg-quicke-/104053032?utm_source=abc_news_web&utm_medium=content_shared&utm_campaign=abc_news_web

Greg Quicke was a pioneer in the field of educational astronomy, known for his engaging and accessible tours in the Kimberley region of Australia. His ability to connect celestial phenomena with everyday life and his infectious passion for the stars left a lasting impression on everyone he met. Over his 28-year career, he inspired more than 100,000 people with his knowledge and love for the night sky.

The paddle out on Cable Beach was a fitting tribute to Greg, who was not only a revered astronomer but also a beloved figure in the Broome surf scene. Friends and family gathered in a circle in the ocean, holding a minute’s silence and laying wreaths and flowers to honor his memory. It was a deeply emotional event, reflecting the immense impact Greg had on all our lives.

In my interview with ABC Australia, I shared some of my fondest memories of Greg and how he influenced my own journey in astronomy. One poignant memory was when I sought his advice during a difficult time. Greg told me to walk down Cable Beach until my worries were gone. His wisdom and spiritual approach to life continue to resonate with me and many others.

Greg's philosophy of "Earth Turning Conscious" and his teachings about the interconnectedness of life and the cosmos have left an indelible mark. He was more than an astronomer; he was a storyteller who brought the universe to us in a language we could all understand. His legacy lives on through the countless people he inspired to look up and wonder at the night sky.

I traveled from Colorado to attend this memorial, and the sense of community and shared love for Greg was palpable. The outpouring of grief and gratitude highlighted just how many lives he touched. As we stood together on Cable Beach, I was reminded of the immense power of his teachings and the enduring legacy he leaves behind.

Greg Quicke’s impact was truly worldwide, and his passing is a significant loss for the global astronomy community. However, his spirit and teachings will continue to guide us. He once said that the stars are our ancestors, and now, he joins them, lighting up the cosmos he so dearly loved.

To read the full article and learn more about the tribute to Greg Quicke, please visit ABC Australia’s coverage.  https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-07-06/hundreds-gather-farewell-broome-astronomer-greg-quicke-/104053032?utm_source=abc_news_web&utm_medium=content_shared&utm_campaign=abc_news_web

Thank you, ABC Australia, for allowing me to share my memories of Greg and for highlighting the profound impact he had on so many lives.

Cheers,

Luke Huxley

Celebrating Our Coverage in Shoutout Colorado

We are thrilled to share that AstroTours.org has been featured in Shoutout Colorado! This article dives into the journey of how AstroTours.org came to be, the inspiration behind it, and the incredible experiences we offer. You can read the full article here.

In this feature, I had the opportunity to talk about the profound influence Greg Quicke, affectionately known as Space Gandalf, had on my journey. Working with Greg at Astro Tours Broome in Australia was a dream come true. His unique approach to making astronomy accessible and engaging deeply inspired me. When I returned to Colorado, I realized there was a gap in hands-on, guided astronomy experiences, and that’s when AstroTours.org was born.

Greg’s philosophy of “Earth Turning Conscious” and his ability to connect celestial phenomena with everyday life continue to guide me. His recent passing has been a significant loss, but his teachings and spirit live on through AstroTours.org. Every time I guide a tour, I strive to embody the joy and wisdom he shared, inspiring awe and understanding of the night sky.

AstroTours.org is dedicated to bringing the wonders of the cosmos to people of all ages, and we are proud to carry on Greg’s legacy here in Colorado. Thank you, Shoutout Colorado, for this amazing feature and for allowing us to share our story.

Clear skies,

Luke Huxley