Stellar Vista Observatory (SVO) , a 501c3 nonprofit organization based in Kanab and the Kane County Water Conservancy District (KCWCD) are pleased to announce an agreement to guide the creation of an educational astronomical observatory for public enjoyment of southern Utah’s star-filled skies at the Conservancy’s Jackson Flat Reservoir property.

The vision for creating an observatory in Kanab to explore the planets, star clusters and other fascinating objects in the night sky with telescopes emerged nearly five years ago when a group of residents foresaw the potential for an entirely new range of evening activities focused on the beauty and inspiration of the stars over southern Utah.

In a letter of intent to Stellar Vista Observatory from KCWCD dated August 9, 2023, Conservancy General Manager Mike Noel states; “This area represents one of the most stunning and preeminent locations for dark sky observing and enjoyment in the nation. Through this partnership with SVO, we envision the creation of a state-of-the art-observatory facility that will serve as a hub for educational programs, public events and community engagement regarding the night sky.” “…an investment in the pursuit of knowledge and the cultivation of curiosity. It’s a chance to foster a love for science among the young minds of our community, sparking a passion that could shape the future.”

Rich Csenge, founder and president of the nonprofit believes the spectacularly dark skies over southern Utah are a priceless treasure of humanity’s heritage, and a universal source of inspiration in our everyday lives. “To witness the ineffable majesty of a truly dark star-filled sky stimulates humility and a perspective important to one’s fulfillment. Traveling to a distant star cluster through the eyepiece of a telescope evokes a sense that one has touched the Infinite and Eternal.”

Over the past five years SVO has carefully assessed the rising public interest in the night sky, developed and refined an architectural plan for its observatory with Architect Robert Kaczowka of Mesa Design in Kanab, and cultivated a team of skilled astronomy interpreters to deliver its community outreach programs. Among its ongoing public activities are free monthly stargazing events, a private night sky experience program for families and groups and a solar science program offering opportunities for safe daytime observation of the sun.

SVO’s observatory facility is to be constructed in two phases to provide proof of concept and begin operating in a Phase 1 stage. This strategy will allow time to develop a comprehensive capital campaign in the local area and beyond with which to finance the full build out of its observatory design in Phase 2. Construction of Phase 1 facilities is expected to begin in early 2025.

Stellar Vista Observatory provides observational experiences for people to enjoy, appreciate and comprehend what we can see in southern Utah’s starry night skies. The observatory will be a locus of community engagement with the night sky and an integral part of the recreational amenities surrounding the Jackson Flat Reservoir.

Under the agreement, KCWCD will own the land and buildings while SVO will fund their construction and produce programming to benefit the community through a lease agreement with the Conservancy.

Financing for Phase 1 of the project has been secured through grants awarded by the Utah Governor’s Office of Outdoor Recreation and the Kane County Recreation and Transportation Special Service District, as well as with funds raised privately through SVO’s Night Sky Experience program at the Amangiri resort in Big Water, Utah.