Celebrating Our Feature in Voyage Denver Magazine

We are thrilled to announce that AstroTours.org has once again been featured in Voyage Denver Magazine! This is our second time being highlighted by this prestigious publication, with our first appearance back in 2020. The latest article, titled "Rising Stars: Meet Luke Huxley," was published on June 25, 2024, and we couldn't be more excited to share our journey and passion for astronomy with a wider audience.

Reflecting on Our Journey

The 2024 article delves into the story of our founder, Luke Huxley, and his lifelong fascination with the night sky. From his early days in Denver, Colorado, where he pointed at the moon as a baby, to receiving his cherished 4-inch Mak-Cassegrain telescope from his grandfather in middle school, Luke's passion for astronomy has always been a guiding star. His academic journey led him to graduate from the University of Colorado in 2016 with a major in physics and minors in astrophysics and geophysics. This strong foundation in science, combined with a year of unforgettable experiences working as a tour guide for "Space Gandalf" in Australia, inspired Luke to bring similar stargazing adventures to the U.S.

Upon returning to Colorado, Luke realized the absence of local experiences akin to those he had in Australia. This realization sparked the creation of AstroTours.org, where we offer hands-on night tours of the sky using telescopes, lasers, and binoculars. Our tours provide a unique opportunity to see planets, constellations, nebulae, clusters, galaxies, and shooting stars, all while fostering a sense of shared wonder about our universe.

Challenges and Triumphs

The article also highlights the challenges we've faced along the way. From creating awareness about our niche stargazing tours to dealing with weather dependencies and advocating for dark sky preservation, each obstacle has been a learning opportunity. Despite these challenges, our passion for astronomy and the positive feedback from our guests keep us motivated. We're proud of our commitment to making astronomy accessible and engaging for everyone, and we remain dedicated to minimizing our environmental footprint.

What Sets Us Apart

AstroTours.org is known for its immersive, hands-on night sky tours led by passionate and knowledgeable guides. Our mission is to inspire a sense of awe and understanding about our place in the universe. We specialize in making complex astronomical concepts accessible and engaging, and we partner with diverse groups and events to promote STEM education and sustainable tourism. Our tours are tailored to the interests and knowledge levels of our guests, ensuring a personalized and memorable experience.

Looking Ahead

As we celebrate this milestone, we are excited about the future. We are expanding our tours to new locations, including Arizona, to bring our stargazing experiences to even more people. We frequently collaborate with local organizations and events to offer special themed tours, such as meteor shower viewings and eclipse events. In addition to our regular tours, we offer private and customized stargazing experiences for groups, families, and corporate events. Our educational outreach programs for schools and youth groups continue to inspire the next generation of astronomers.

Join Us Under the Stars

We invite you to join us on a tour and experience the magic of the cosmos firsthand. Follow us on social media and sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on the latest AstroTours news, events, and astronomy tips. Your feedback and support help us grow and enhance our tours. Thank you for being a part of our journey, and we look forward to sharing more unforgettable stargazing experiences with you.

For more details, check out the full article on Voyage Denver's website.

Clear skies and happy stargazing!

Luke HuxleyFounder, AstroTours.org

When to Stargaze: Any Time is Cosmic Time!

Have you ever wondered when the best time is to stargaze? The truth is, any night can unfold into a wondrous stargazing adventure, and with the right equipment, even daytime can offer a celestial spectacle. At AstroTours.org, we believe every moment under the sky holds potential for discovery.

1. Nighttime Wonders: Embrace the Darkness

Each night presents a unique canvas for stargazing. A favorite among many is just after a full moon, where the moon rises late, granting us a dark sky sprinkled with stars, and then a moonrise to cap off the evening. However, you don't need a meteor shower or special event to enjoy the stars – they're always there, waiting to be admired.

2. Daytime Solar Gazing: Safety First

With the correct safety equipment, observing the sun can be just as fascinating as exploring the night sky. Specialized solar glasses or telescope filters are essential to protect your eyes from the sun's harmful rays. Never look directly at the sun without proper protection!

3. Meteor Showers: Cosmic Fireworks

Meteor showers offer a spectacular display, and Colorado's skies are perfect for catching these cosmic events. Here are some noteworthy annual showers to mark on your calendar:

• Quadrantid: Early January

• Lyrid: Late April

• Eta Aquariid: Early May

• Perseid: Mid-August

• Geminid: Mid-December

And many more throughout the year!

4. Other Celestial Events to Watch For

Colorado's skies are not just about meteor showers. Here are some upcoming events for the rest of the year:

• June Solstice: The longest day in the Northern Hemisphere.

• Lunar Occultation of Saturn: Watch the Moon pass close to Saturn in August.

• Partial Lunar Eclipse: A beautiful celestial dance in September.

• Annular Solar Eclipse: A rare 'Ring of fire' eclipse in October.

For a full list of events, visit AstroTours.org.

5. Colorado's Advantage: Clear Skies Ahead

With over 300 days of sunshine, Colorado offers a stargazing-friendly climate. Clear nights are more common than not, making it an ideal location for both amateur and seasoned astronomers.

6. Starting Your Stargazing Journey with AstroTours.org

Whether you're a beginner or an expert, AstroTours.org is here to guide you. Our tours are designed to educate and inspire, providing hands-on experience with telescopes and red lights to preserve your night vision. We also provide flyers with helpful stargazing tips for beginners.

The stars are always within reach, and with AstroTours.org, you're never alone in your celestial journey. Remember, every night is a good night for stargazing, and every day holds the potential for solar observation. Embrace the cosmos – the sky is waiting!

Book Your Stargazing Experience at AstroTours.org/book

Astronomy for Beginners: Where to Start Your Stellar Journey

Embarking on the journey of astronomy can be as thrilling as it is daunting. The night sky, with its vastness and complexity, often leaves beginners wondering where to start. Fortunately, the path to becoming an amateur astronomer is simpler than it seems, and we at AstroTours.org are here to guide you.

1. Join an Astronomy Program

The best way to dive into astronomy is by immersing yourself in it. AstroTours.org offers beginner-friendly astronomy programs that introduce you to the basics of the night sky and how to use a telescope. Our programs are designed to make learning both fun and informative. Book your spot at AstroTours.org/book and start your astronomical adventure!

2. Start with the Right Equipment

a. Choosing a Telescope: For backyard stargazing, a Dobsonian telescope is an excellent choice due to its user-friendly design and effectiveness. For those who travel or camp, a Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope offers a more portable option. Remember, anything smaller than 4 inches is better suited for lunar observations only; for deeper space viewing, larger is better.

b. Binoculars: A good pair of binoculars can be a fantastic starting point. They are less expensive than telescopes and surprisingly versatile for stargazing. Look for specifications like 15x60 or 20x40 - the first number is the magnification, and the second is the aperture (the larger the second number, the better, but also heavier).

3. Utilize Stellar Apps and Resources

There's a universe of free star chart apps that can enhance your stargazing experience. Some recommended apps include:

• Aurora Alerts: Great for those in northern regions to catch the Northern Lights.

• Heaven's Above: Ideal for tracking satellites.

• Night Sky and Sky Safari: Excellent for deeper sky objects.

Combine the free versions of Sky Safari and Celestron Sky Portal for a comprehensive experience.

Also, consider traditional guidebooks and star wheels for offline learning. They are invaluable tools that do not rely on battery life or cell service and help preserve your night vision.

4. Protect Your Night Vision

Preserving night vision is critical in astronomy. All guests at our AstroTours.org programs receive red lights, which are less disruptive to night vision. This small tool can significantly enhance your viewing experience.

5. Practical Tips for the Amateur Astronomer

• Find a Dark Spot: Light pollution is a major hindrance. Seek out darker locations for the best views.

• Patience is Key: Allow your eyes to adjust to the dark for about 20-30 minutes.

• Join a Community: Connect with local astronomy clubs or online forums for advice and shared experiences.

Astronomy is a journey that starts with a single step under the night sky. With the right tools, resources, and guidance, anyone can unlock the mysteries of the cosmos. Remember, every expert was once a beginner. Start your adventure with AstroTours.org and let the stars be your guide.

Embark on Your Astronomical Adventure at AstroTours.org