Name: Building the Future of Dark Skies in the Badlands
Start: 2026-04-14T17:30:00-06:00
Location: Rapid City Public Library

Building the Future of Dark Skies in the Badlands

In celebration of International Dark Sky Week, the Badlands National Park Conservancy (BNPC) joins the library for a panel discussion to explore the future of dark sky conservation in the Badlands.
The panel will feature the Badlands National Park Superintendent Eric Veach, Michaela Lavender from the Wall Chamber of Commerce, Craig Howe the director of CAIRNS, and other voices from tourism and education.
The discussion will explore:
- The park's pursuit of International Dark Sky Park designation
- The role of dark skies in science, tourism, and rural economic development
- The vision for a state-of-the-art public observatory in Badlands National Park
- How local communities, tribal partners, businesses, and supporters can help protect and celebrate this extraordinary resource.
Rapid City Public Library (Community Room)
Tuesday, April 14
5:30–6:30 PM
This free event is open to the public! Come be part of the discussion!
After the event, adjourn to Dakota Point Brewery to continue a casual conversation about the power of Dark Skies and enjoy some star gazing as the sun sets from the Dakota Point patio. Are you a local astronomy enthusiast with a telescope? We invite you to bring your telescopes to Dakota Point to share your passion and views of the night sky with our audience.