advertisement
26 January 2026
Flagstaff, Arizona, is internationally recognized for its commitment to protecting the night sky. Long before “dark sky” became a global movement, this mountain town was taking action to preserve its stars. Flagstaff’s dark sky advocacy is a combination of science, community planning, and environmental stewardship that has made it a model for cities around the world.
advertisement
Flagstaff’s relationship with the night sky dates back to the late 1800s, when astronomers were drawn to the area’s high elevation, clean air, and minimal light pollution. The founding of Lowell Observatory in 1894 cemented the city’s role in astronomical research and sparked early discussions about protecting darkness.
As Flagstaff grew, residents and scientists alike recognized that unchecked artificial lighting could threaten astronomical observation and disrupt the natural environment.
In 2001, Flagstaff made history by becoming the world’s first officially designated International Dark Sky City. This designation acknowledged decades of local policies aimed at reducing light pollution while still allowing the city to function safely and efficiently.
The recognition placed Flagstaff on the global map as a leader in dark sky preservation.
Flagstaff’s dark-sky advocacy is not about turning off all lights. Instead, it focuses on smart lighting, using the right amount of light, in the right place, at the right time.
Flagstaff’s dark sky efforts benefit far more than astronomers. Reduced light pollution helps:
Lowell Observatory remains a driving force behind Flagstaff’s advocacy. The observatory works closely with city leaders, developers, and the community to ensure lighting policies protect ongoing research. Its presence has helped shape Flagstaff’s identity as a place where science and daily life coexist.
Flagstaff’s commitment to darkness has also created a unique form of tourism. Visitors come specifically to experience:
This form of tourism supports local businesses while reinforcing the value of preservation.
Flagstaff’s dark sky advocacy has inspired communities across Arizona and beyond to adopt similar lighting practices. Nearby parks, towns, and even major metropolitan areas now look to Flagstaff as proof that growth and environmental responsibility can coexist.
advertisement
Flagstaff’s dark sky advocacy is more than a policy; it’s a shared community value. By protecting darkness, the city preserves its scientific legacy, safeguards wildlife, and offers residents and visitors a rare gift: a truly star-filled sky. In a world growing brighter every year, Flagstaff stands as a reminder that some things are worth keeping dark.
advertisement
If it seems like pickleball courts are suddenly everywhere in Arizona, you’re not imagining things. Parks are adding courts. Resorts are advertising pickleball vacations. Retirement communities have thriving leagues. Indoor pickleball clubs are popping up across the Valley, and major professional and amateur tournaments are bringing thousands of players to the state. Pickleball has become one of America’s biggest recreational sports, and Arizona has emerged as one of the country’s major pickleball destinations. But Arizona’s connection to the sport actually goes back decades. advertisement What Is Pickleball? Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table
Arizona is an amazing and remarkably diverse state. It is best known worldwide for the Grand Canyon, the spectacular mile-deep gorge carved by the Colorado River over millions of years. But those of us who call Arizona home know there is much more to the Grand Canyon State than its most famous landmark. Arizona is a place where you can find one of America’s largest cities, one of its snowiest communities, enormous pine forests, incredibly remote villages, vast tribal lands, and some of the sunniest weather anywhere on Earth. Here are seven fascinating facts that show just how surprising Arizona
Deep in the rugged mountains of southern Arizona, a motion-activated camera captured something extraordinary: a large spotted cat silently moving through the wilderness. It was not a mountain lion or a bobcat. It was a jaguar. The animal would eventually become known as El Jefe, Spanish for “The Boss.” For several years, he was the only known wild jaguar living in the United States, making him both a local celebrity and a powerful symbol of a species that once roamed across a much larger portion of the American Southwest. El Jefe’s story is also surprisingly hopeful. After disappearing from Arizona
Living in Arizona comes with plenty of perks, including beautiful scenery, relatively mild winters, and countless opportunities for road trips. But Arizona can also be tough on your car. Extreme summer temperatures, blazing-hot pavement, intense sunlight, dust, monsoon storms, and long stretches of remote highway can all take their toll on a vehicle. Whether you are buying a new car or trying to keep your current one running smoothly, there are a few things every Arizona driver should consider. advertisement Air Conditioning Is Not Optional In many parts of the country, a weak air conditioner is uncomfortable. In Arizona, it
