Educational Programs
The Dark Sky Cooperative creates educational experiences that help people connect with natural night in meaningful ways. Some programs invite individuals and families to explore dark skies at their own pace. Others offer guided, place-based experiences designed to foster reflection, awe, learning, and well-being. Together, these programs help participants build knowledge, deepen stewardship, and experience the value of dark night skies for themselves.
Utah Dark Sky Passport
A self-guided program that encourages people to visit dark sky places, enjoy the outdoors at night, and connect with the cosmos.
The Utah Dark Sky Passport is designed for families, travelers, students, and anyone interested in exploring dark skies through hands-on experience. Participants visit a dark sky place, complete activities in the passport, reflect on what they experienced, and can submit their experience to receive a certificate.
- Visit a dark sky place, or any place where you can see the stars.
- Enjoy the outdoors at night and connect with the cosmos.
- Complete activities and record your experience.
- Share your experience and earn a Dark Sky Passport certificate.
The program page also provides trip-planning resources, stargazing tips, guidance on finding star parties, and information about certified dark sky places across Utah.
Skyward
A nature-based program that supports teen wellness through awe, reflection, and connection under the night sky.
Skyward is an evidence-based, nature-centered program designed for teens. Through guided outdoor experiences, reflective activities, and intentional encounters with the night sky, participants are invited to slow down, look up, and rediscover wonder, belonging, and calm.
- Supports teen wellness through awe, reflection, and connection.
- Draws on research in awe, environmental psychology, and creative expression.
- Uses outdoor immersion to foster emotional resilience, curiosity, and belonging.
- Offers scheduled camps and guided youth experiences at dark sky locations.
The current Skyward page includes 2026 camp dates, registration information, and direct contact details for program leadership.
Quarterly Connections
A live webinar series that brings together experts and practitioners to explore how we can protect night skies and reduce light pollution.
Quarterly Connections is a series of interactive online meetings focused on the educational, cultural, recreational, and economic value of dark skies. The program invites participants to hear from experts, engage with peers, and explore audience-directed topics related to preserving the night sky.
- Features live, interactive webinars with expert speakers.
- Covers topics such as community engagement, certification, mental health, outdoor lighting, safety, and cultural connections with the night sky.
- Provides access to recordings and supporting materials from past sessions.
- Creates an accessible pathway for communities, planners, educators, and partners to stay connected and informed.
The program archive includes past session recordings and related materials, making it easy for participants to revisit topics and share them with others.
Partner with Us
The Dark Sky Cooperative’s educational programs depend on collaboration. We welcome partnerships with parks, communities, educators, and others to expand our efforts to bring the benefits of dark night skies to everyone.
If you are interested in participating in future efforts, hosting a program, or co-designing something new, we would love to hear from you.
