Stargazing in the Four Corners Region, Under the Desert Stars: AstroTours.org at Unison 2023

A vast desert landscape, the night sky illuminated by a blanket of stars, and a community gathered to celebrate art, music, and the cosmic wonders above. That's precisely what unfolded at Unison 2023, and AstroTours.org was there to add a celestial touch to this unique event. Join us as we recount our experience under the desert stars at Unison, an event that embodies the spirit of clarity, creativity, and connectivity.

Unison: Where Heart-Centered Connections Flourish

Unison isn't your typical gathering. It's a place where people come together to explore their greatest selves while fostering a collective sense of energetic unity. Held in the breathtaking Durango, Colorado, and hosted at the Tico Time Resort, Unison's ethos centers on heart-centered living, creativity, and friendship. It's an event that encourages attendees to be present, clear, and sober, ensuring a safe and loving environment for all.

Stargazing in the Four Corners Region

The Four Corners region, where Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, and Utah intersect, is a haven for stargazing enthusiasts. The high elevation and low light pollution make it a prime spot for observing the cosmos. AstroTours.org capitalized on this celestial canvas to offer attendees an unforgettable stargazing experience.

AstroTours.org's Debut at Tico Time Resort

Unison 2023 marked a special occasion for AstroTours.org as it was our first time setting up at the Tico Time River Resort. Our team, experienced in creating immersive stargazing environments, ensured that the cosmic wonders above were easily accessible to all Unison participants. The desert's natural beauty combined with our telescopes made for a stellar combination.

Stargazing, Art, and Music

At Unison, the boundaries between art, music, and stargazing blurred. Attendees had the opportunity to explore the night sky through our telescopes while being serenaded by live music and surrounded by captivating art installations. It was a sensory experience like no other, where the celestial and the creative converged.

Planning Your Four Corners Event

If you're planning an event in the Four Corners region, AstroTours.org has the expertise to elevate it to cosmic heights. Our seasoned team can set up telescopes, create immersive stargazing environments, and add a touch of wonder to your gathering. Contact us to turn your event into an unforgettable celestial celebration.

Unison 2023 was a testament to the power of heart-centered living, creativity, and the beauty of the night sky. Under the desert stars of Durango, Colorado, AstroTours.org helped attendees forge connections with the cosmos and each other. Whether you're planning an event in the Four Corners region or simply have a passion for stargazing, art, and music, AstroTours.org is here to make your celestial dreams come true. Join us as we continue to explore the wonders of the universe, one starry night at a time.

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!