Great Basin National Park in Baker, Nevada is one of our state’s most treasure parks for hiking, camping and stargazing. The areais renowned for some its captivating night skies and is home to the Lehman Caves and agedBristlecone pines.
The Great Basin National Park Foundation recently received a $50,000 gift from NV Energy to support the Great Basin Observatory.
This state of the art astronomical observatory is a collaboration between the University of Nevada Reno, Western Nevada College and the Great Basin National Park Foundation and will be launched in 2016. Southern Utah University and Concordia University will soon join this group as partners. The Observatory’s telescope will be made available through the internet for astrophysicists and students, and the data generated will be used for worldwide research and education.
“Great Basin National Park is a very special asset to Nevadans, and NV Energy is proud to be a part of this important initiative,” said Mary Simmons, NV Energy Vice President of Business Development and Community Strategy. “The Observatory will provide unique educational opportunities for students, tourists and astronomy enthusiasts of all ages across the state.”
Completion of the observatory will coincide with the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service and the 30th Anniversary of Great Basin National Park. “NV Energy has given generously to Park projects in the past”, said Rebecca Mills, Chair of the Great Basin National Park Foundation. “This significant gift, combined with Board member contributions and pledges, serves as a match of $100,000 pledged by the Great Basin National Heritage Partnership, and speeds us on our way to raising the remaining funds.”
To donate or for more information about the project visit: www.greatbasinobservatory.org.
