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 Badlands is home to some of the darkest night skies in North America.

This extraordinary natural resource supports scientific discovery, cultural storytelling, education, and sustainable tourism across western South Dakota.

This conversation is part of a broader effort by the Conservancy and Badlands National Park to engage community stakeholders, partners, and philanthropic supporters in protecting the region’s night skies and advancing a bold vision for astronomy, education, and research in the park.

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.

The panel will include:

Marissa Marshall – BNPC Executive Director

Eric Veach – Badlands National Park Superintendent

Peggy Norris – South Dakota Space Grant and Black Hills State University

Craig Howe – Director of CAIRNS

Michaela Lavender – Wall Chamber of Commerce