Volunteer for Dark Skies

The starry night sky... one of the many resources the National Park Service (NPS) is charged with protecting. The experience of a natural night sky has been humanity’s companion for eons, providing the transparency of our planet’s atmosphere at night and uncovering where we really reside. But careless use of artificial light handicaps our ability to see the cosmos. Light pollution washes out the view of the night sky for many Americans, reaching even remote national parks. Air pollution further exacerbates the scattering of light, and dims the stars. Our parks provide the best opportunity for seeing a natural night sky.

Darkness masks hundreds of visitors gathered beneath the night sky in Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah. Photo courtesy Kevin Doxstater

Stargazing programs in parks are gaining popularity and sharing this resource with the public is a key part of the NPS mission. Amateur astronomers and those with a pension for stargazing can help us by strengthening visitors’ connection with the night sky. 2009 marks the International Year of Astronomy, which will bring more people to the parks to see the stars.

The NPS is seeking qualified volunteers to commit to at least 4 weeks during the period March to October, 2009. We are currently developing a list of parks seeking volunteer support. Some of these parks, particularly the smaller ones, have very limited staff where volunteers are sought to orchestrate most aspects of nighttime public programs. Other parks already have an ongoing astronomy program but they need additional assistance and skill with telescope use. Volunteers are expected to work 32 hours per week and may be asked to devote a portion of their work week to other park needs.

The ideal applicant is gregarious, communicative, self-motivated, knowledgeable, approachable, and a good public speaker. Applicants should also be flexible, willing to learn new methods, and be able to adapt to an established public program that is somewhat unlike a traditional star party. Volunteers (Astro VIPs as they are sometimes called) will be expected to support the NPS mission, night sky protection, and partnerships with astronomy clubs and the community while maintaining enthusiasm and refraining from espousing political or religious viewpoints. Job will require working with crowds and a diverse public (foreign language skills a plus) in both independent and team modes. A stipend of $25 per workday is provided. Training for first-time Astro VIPs will be provided prior to your assignment.

Housing in the park, often small cabins, apartments, or dormitories will be provided. If you have an RV then that can usually be accommodated and is preferred. When the applications are in we will discuss potential schedules and assignments with each successful applicant to provide the best fit for the volunteer. Selections will be made based on 1) knowledge of the sky, astronomical equipment, and techniques, 2) communication skills and experience working with the public, 3) availability and time commitment, and 4) references and other factors that indicate suitability for this particular program. Eight to twelve persons will be selected. After your first tour of duty as an Astro VIP, we will accept time commitments shorter than 4 weeks.

• List all positions held within the last 2 years
• List of other related paid work and volunteer experience. For each listing, include a brief discussion of duties, period of work, hours per week, supervisor, and supervisor contact information
• List and elaborate on astronomy/stargazing skills
• List and elaborate on communication and/or public education skills
• Include 3 references
• Include available time commitment and desired parks or regions

Questions can be directed to Chad Moore, 970-491-3700

General NPS volunteer program information is available at: http://www.nps.gov/volunteer/