Astronomy Volunteer

Save to Favorites

Description

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument is the heart of the Sonoran Desert; located in one the remotest parts of Arizona, we enjoy some of the darkest, and driest skies in North America; an excellent place for people to immerse themselves in the beauty and wonder of the night sky. This strikingly beautiful landscape offers abundant opportunities for learning about the night sky, telescope viewing and astrophotography; 95% of the park is designated wilderness. The park is seeking a qualified volunteer to work in partnership with our night sky ranger to deliver night sky programming during the busy winter months of January - March. The candidate will use park equipment but is also welcome to bring their own telescope. The ideal candidate is an excellent public speaker, knowledgeable about the night sky and the science of astronomy and is able to convey their knowledge to the public evoking wonder, excitement, and awe of the heavens.

Start and end dates are negotiable, however the park is asking for a minimum of a two-month commitment, with preference for the entire three-month period. In exchange for 32 hours a week volunteer time, the park will provide a site in the volunteer RV campground with utility hook-ups (electric/water/sewer/propane), laundry facilities, Wifi and a community room. Volunteer must arrive in their own self-contained RV unit.

Duties

Primary tasks include collaboratively preparing and delivering night sky programs including telescope viewing utilizing traditional, digital and electronically assisted telescopes with the park’s night sky interpretation ranger. Other tasks include presenting both formal and informal programs and talks about the night sky. Volunteers are welcome to bring their own equipment, but the park is not responsible for any damage. Volunteers are expected to have knowledge of telescope operations and basic maintenance. The park does not have a permanent observing facility, so set-up and take-down is required with some moderate lifting.

Start Date - 2025-01-06

End Date - 2025-04-07