International Dark Sky Week April 2026 Proclamation

PROCLAMATION

INTERNATIONAL DARK SKY WEEK
April 13 — April 20, 2026
WHEREAS, the aesthetic beauty and wonder of a natural night sky is a shared heritage of all
humankind; and

WHEREAS, the experience of standing beneath a starry night sky inspires feelings of wonder and
awe, and encourages a growing interest in science and nature, especially among young people and
out-of-area visitors within the local communities; and

WHEREAS, light pollution has scientifically established economic and _ environmental
consequences, which result in significant impacts on the ecology and human health of all
communities; and

»| WHEREAS, Arizona hosts 10% of the world’s largest telescopes—including the world’s largest

| optical telescope—and many of the world’s most revered observatories, including the Lowell

Observatory, the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory/Whipple Observatory, the University of

_| Arizona’s MMT and Large Binocular Telescope Observatories, Kitt Peak National Observatory, the
_| Vatican Observatory and in the future, the International Dark Sky Discovery Center; and

WHEREAS, optical astronomy—which is both hindered and endangered by unfettered light
pollution—represents a statewide capital investment of more than $1.3 billion and an annual
- economic return of over $250 million, including an indirect attachment to more than 150,000 jobs
: through the aerospace and defense sector; and

WHEREAS, Fountain Hills Dark Sky Preservation Committee provides free education, resources,

He and solutions to the public to encourage the protection of and enjoyment of dark skies and

responsible outdoor lighting.

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that |, Mayor Gerry M. Friedel on behalf of the Town of
Fountain Hills proclaim the week of April 13 — April 20, 2026, as

INTERNATIONAL DARK SKY WEEK

and ask each resident to join me not only in observing this important week but also in raising
awareness and support for protecting our precious dark sky resources.

_| IN WITNESS WHEREOF, | have hereunto set my hand and caused to be affixed the official seal of
_| the Town of Fountain Hills, Maricopa County, _, this 7" 2d, of April, 2026.

Bou. Friedel, ae
“Ocul 5

Bevelyn J. Auelyoryh Clerk