PRESS RELEASE
August 15, 2024
Kevin Schindler Welcomed Back to Grand Canyon as First Alumni Astronomer in Residence
Flagstaff, AZ, [August 15, 2024] – Lowell Observatory Public Information Officer and Historian Kevin Schindler was invited back to Grand Canyon National Park as the first returning alumnus of the Grand Canyon Astronomer in Residence Program. As part of this pilot alumni program, Schindler took residence at the park in July to continue researching Apollo astronaut training at the canyon while sharing his expertise with the public.
Rader Lane, Grand Canyon National Park’s Dark Sky Ranger, says, “The Astronomer in Residence program is a vital part of our mission to preserve and celebrate Grand Canyon’s incredible night skies. Kevin’s work continues to bring the wonders of the cosmos closer to our visitors, helping them understand the critical importance of dark skies and inspiring them to protect the stars in their own communities.”
The Astronomer in Residence program is managed by Grand Canyon Conservancy, Grand Canyon National Park’s official nonprofit partner. The program provides a unique opportunity for astronomers, scientists, artists, and dark sky advocates to immerse themselves in what is recognized as an International Dark Sky Park, and one of the seven wonders of the world. Participants in the program engage with visitors through educational outreach and creative initiatives, aiming to foster a deeper understanding of the importance of natural darkness and the impact of light pollution. The program’s goal is to inspire appreciation and stewardship of our night skies, highlighting the complex relationship between humanity and the natural world.
Clover Morell, the Residency Program Manager at Grand Canyon Conservancy, says, “Kevin Schindler’s return as an alumnus of the Astronomer in Residence program is a testament to the enduring impact of this initiative. His research and public outreach efforts exemplify the kind of meaningful engagement we strive to offer through this program.”
“We are thrilled to have him back as the first returning Astronomer in Residence as a part of our alumni program, and are excited by our ongoing collaboration between Lowell Observatory and Grand Canyon Conservancy.”
In May of 2023, Schindler served a one-month tour of duty as Astronomer in Residence at Grand Canyon National Park. He primarily focused on researching and sharing NASA’s Apollo Astronauts’ connections with the region in preparation for their historic missions to the Moon. During his residency, Schindler hosted several public programs that enhanced visitor’s understanding of the Grand Canyon’s importance in the history of space exploration.
Schindler’s previous research at the canyon culminated in the publishing of The Grand Canyon (Past and Present), a nonfiction paperback that juxtaposes historic and modern photographs of locations where astronaut training took place. He spent his time as a returning alumnus last month continuing this research with the intention of incorporating it into future projects, including educational wayfinding signs and digital content.
“It is an honor to continue participating in the residency program,” says Schindler. “I’m always looking for new ways to build awareness about the significance of the astronaut training that happened at the park and show the connection between the canyon and the cosmos. It’s representative of the recent collaborations happening between Lowell Observatory, Grand Canyon National Park, and Grand Canyon Conservancy.”
Schindler also gave three public presentations on the Apollo astronaut training during the week, as well as lazer-guided constellation tours in the evenings.
Applications for the Astronomer in Residence program and the Artist in Residence program or more information on the initiative can be found at grandcanyon.org/experience-grand-canyon/residency-program.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Members of the media are invited to the grand opening on November 16, 2024, with exclusive media passes offering early access, a private press room equipped with high-speed internet, printers, charging stations, and interview opportunities with key leaders and dignitaries throughout the day. To request a media pass, please email media@lowell.edu.
Contact:
Kevin Schindler | Press Information Officer and Historian
Phone: (928) 607-1387
Email: media@lowell.edu
Caity Varian | Marketing Manager, Grand Canyon Conservancy
Phone: (928) 638-7148
Email: cvarian@grandcanyon.org
About Lowell Observatory
Founded in 1894, Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, Arizona, is a renowned nonprofit research institution. It is the site of historic and groundbreaking discoveries, including the first evidence of the expanding universe and the discovery of Pluto. Today, Lowell’s astronomers utilize global ground-based and space telescopes, along with NASA spacecraft, for diverse astronomical and planetary science research. The observatory hosts over 100,000 annual visitors for educational tours, presentations, and telescope viewing through a suite of world-class public telescopes.
About Grand Canyon Conservancy
Grand Canyon Conservancy is the official nonprofit partner of Grand Canyon National Park, raising private funds, operating retail shops within the park, and providing premier guided educational programs about the natural and cultural history of the region. Grand Canyon Conservancy supporters fund projects including trails and historic building preservation, educational programs for the public, and the protection of wildlife and their natural habitat.
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Media Contact:
Kevin Schindler
Public Information Officer
media@lowell.edu
1400 W Mars Hill Rd, Flagstaff 86001 | lowell.edu