Grand Canyon Astronomer in Residence

The Astronomer in Residence program at Grand Canyon National Park offers astronomers and dark-sky advocates from diverse fields—including science, technology, arts, and conservation— the opportunity to practice and share their discipline with park visitors under one of the most pristine night skies in the United States. Through educational outreach and creative connection, the program hopes to inspire visitors to see the value of night skies, spread awareness about the threats of light pollution, and explore society's complex relationship with natural darkness.  

The program is tied directly to the National Park Service Interpretation and Resource Education goal of dark sky preservation and Grand Canyon Conservancy’s mission to inspire generations of park champions to cherish and support the natural and cultural wonder of Grand Canyon.

Astronomers, both professional and amateur, scientists from ecologists to geologists, dark-sky advocates, educators, writers, and other practitioners with expertise in the night sky are encouraged to apply. We seek a variety of voices and strategies for engaging our visitors with dark sky preservation.  

Annually, three “astronomers” are selected to live and work on the South Rim of Grand Canyon in Arizona. Astronomers in Residence deliver at least two public programs per week during their stay. In exchange, residents stay in a private apartment overlooking the Canyon for 4-8 weeks and receive media exposure, a weekly stipend, and modest support with supply and travel costs. Additionally, residents have special access to Grand Canyon National Park, park leadership, staff expertise, on-site resources, archives, and international visitors. Alumni are often invited to participate in additional opportunities like proposal reviews, webinars, blog posts, and dark sky events.