Job posting 2023

AstroTours.org, a local astronomy tour business operating out of Boulder, Colorado, is seeking multiple tour guides to join their team for the winter/spring going into the busy summer season. As a tour guide, you will be responsible for leading tours starting at sunset and lasting for approximately 2 hours, with shifts lasting 4 to 6 hours to allow for adequate preparation and clean-up time.

Must-have qualifications:

• Reliability

• Some familiarity with astronomy and the use of telescopes (training will be provided)

• Valid driver's license and experience driving in the mountains at night

• Ability to lift 55lbs

• Confidence speaking in front of an audience

• Enjoyment communicating complex ideas to people from around the world

Additional qualifications that would make you stand out:

• Knowledge of astronomy folklore, such as mythology, astrology, indigenous star names, etc.

• Safety experience, including CPR and First Aid

• Knowledge of Colorado nature, flora, fauna, geology, geography, and history

• Travel or tour guiding experience

If you meet the above qualifications, please send an email to Coda@AstroTours.org with:

1. "Job Posting" in the subject line.

2. Attached CV or resume.

3. In the body of the email please include:

   • A brief bio highlighting your astronomy skills and experience

   • Your availability for Spring/Summer 2024

   • Your favorite Messier object (or object from any other catalog)

   • Any questions you may have.

Stargazing Under the Anime Skies: AstroTours.org at Gaylord of the Rockies 2023

Nan Desu Kan, or NDK as it's affectionately known, isn't your typical convention. It's a celebration of Japanese culture, a hub for cosplay enthusiasts, and a gathering place for anime lovers. And in 2023, AstroTours.org brought a unique twist to NDK – stargazing under the anime skies. Join us on a journey through this extraordinary event where we blended the magic of Japanese folklore with the wonders of the cosmos.

NDK: A Hub of Anime, Friendship, and Community Before we dive into our stargazing adventure, let's set the stage. NDK, or Nan Desu Kan, is a 3-day Japanese culture convention that's been a staple in the anime community since 1997. Hosted at the stunning Gaylord Rockies Resort, it's a place where people from all walks of life come together to celebrate their love for Japanese arts, cosplay, gaming, and more.

The Gaylord Rockies Resort: A Cosmic Setting The Gaylord Rockies Resort, nestled against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, provides a unique canvas for our stargazing escapade. With its expansive open spaces and clear skies, it's the perfect location to explore the mysteries of the universe. AstroTours.org has had the privilege of setting up our telescopes here for the third time, making us seasoned experts in creating the ultimate stargazing experience.

Japan Folklore Meets the Stars One of the highlights of our NDK stargazing adventure was the fusion of Japanese folklore with the stars. We brought to life ancient tales of celestial beings and mythical creatures that have been part of Japanese culture for centuries. As participants gazed through our telescopes, they learned about the legends behind the constellations, adding a layer of depth to their stargazing experience.

Cosplay and Anime Stargazing Cosplay and stargazing may seem like an unusual pairing, but at NDK, it was a match made in heaven (or should we say the cosmos?). Participants donned their favorite anime characters' costumes and joined us under the stars. It was a surreal experience to see characters from the screen exploring the real wonders of the universe. We even had telescopes themed around popular anime series, adding an extra layer of excitement for the fans.

Planning Your Event at the Gaylord Rockies If you're planning an event at the Gaylord Rockies Resort, AstroTours.org has the experience you need to create a celestial spectacle. Our team knows the ins and outs of setting up telescopes and creating an immersive stargazing experience that will leave your attendees in awe. Contact us to turn your event into an unforgettable cosmic journey.

Conclusion AstroTours.org's stargazing adventure at NDK 2023 was a cosmic celebration of Japanese culture, anime, and the wonders of the universe. Under the vast skies of the Gaylord Rockies Resort, we blended Japan folklore with the stars, creating a unique experience that will be etched in the memories of NDK attendees for years to come. If you're planning an event at the Gaylord Rockies or simply have a passion for anime and stargazing, AstroTours.org is here to make your cosmic dreams come true. Be you, be anime, and reach for the stars!

Loveland Pass: A Celestial Hideaway Near Breckenridge

When it comes to stargazing, few places rival the pristine beauty and cosmic wonders that Loveland Pass, just a stone's throw from Breckenridge, Colorado, has to offer. For AstroTours.org founder Luke, it's not just a stargazing spot; it's a celestial sanctuary.

A Cosmic Connection at Loveland Pass

Nestled along the I-70 corridor, Loveland Pass is renowned for its breathtaking mountain vistas and high-alpine splendor. But as the sun dips below the horizon, this place transforms into something truly magical. The clear, dark skies here beckon stargazers from near and far.

Why Loveland Pass?

1. Meteor Showers Galore: If you're a meteor shower enthusiast, Loveland Pass is your front-row seat to celestial fireworks. Luke notes, "It's where I go if I want to catch a meteor shower or just stargaze on my own." The lack of light pollution ensures a meteor show like no other.

2. Unbeatable Darkness: The Denver Front Range may be a bustling urban area, but just a short drive away, you'll find darkness that's almost surreal. Loveland Pass offers the kind of darkness that makes you feel like you're floating in space.

3. Proximity to Ski Resorts: For visitors to Breckenridge, Keystone, Frisco, and nearby ski areas like Loveland and Arapahoe Basin, Loveland Pass is a convenient escape into the cosmos. After a day on the slopes, why not spend a night under the stars?

4. Stunning Mountain Backdrop: The jagged peaks of the Rocky Mountains create a dramatic backdrop for your stargazing adventure. It's a picture-perfect setting that elevates the entire experience.

Tips for Stargazing at Loveland Pass

• Check the Moon Phase: A dark moonless night is ideal for stargazing, especially if you're hoping to catch a meteor shower or observe faint deep-sky objects.

• Dress Warmly: Even in summer, mountain nights can be chilly. Layer up to stay comfortable during your stargazing session.

• Bring Binoculars or a Telescope: While the naked eye reveals plenty of celestial wonders, binoculars or a telescope can enhance your experience, allowing you to explore galaxies, nebulae, and distant planets up close.

• Respect Nature: Remember that Loveland Pass is not just a stargazing spot; it's also home to delicate alpine ecosystems. Leave no trace, and tread lightly.

Find Your Cosmic Sanctuary at Loveland Pass

For those seeking an escape from city lights and a chance to connect with the cosmos, Loveland Pass is a hidden gem. Whether you're a seasoned stargazer or just looking for a unique adventure, the dark skies and mountainous backdrop make this location truly special.

So, next time you find yourself near Breckenridge, Keystone, or any of the neighboring ski areas, consider a celestial detour to Loveland Pass. It's where the mountains meet the stars, offering a glimpse into the vastness of the universe, just a short drive from the Denver Front Range. Don't miss the opportunity to experience the magic of Loveland Pass for yourself.