Our Story
Why is the environment treated so poorly? Why do so many people think that humans are more important than the other life forms on the planet? Douglas Arion thought that if people looked up and understood where we came from and where we fit in the Universe, maybe, just maybe, they would become better stewards of the Earth. In 2012 he founded Mountains of Stars to create and deliver astronomy-based nature and environment programs and activities to the public to change behaviors and motivate people to protect the natural environment.
Astronomy is the study of the entire Universe - it not only includes the history of the Cosmos and the formation of stars and planets, but also the chemistry and biology that led to life itself, making it the perfect way to create environmental awareness from a cosmic perspective.
Mountains of Stars offers demonstrations and activities at many locations throughout the northeast US, reaching thousands of guests and visitors each year in partnerships with environmental, conservation, and educational organizations. Mountains of Stars programs have a strong reputation and are requested by schools, libraries, and parks.
Students who have interned with the program have allowed us to deliver programs to large audiences, and have taken their new skills to become Forest Rangers, middle and high school science teachers, science outreach professionals, and research scientists in industry and academia. Their success demonstrates the value of working with the public in environmental conservation and science.
Learn more about Mountains of Stars programs and what we offer
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Some of our programs and activities:
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“Adrift in a cosmos whose shores he cannot even imagine, man spends his energies in fighting with his fellow man over issues which a single look through this telescope would show to be utterly inconsequential.”
— Raymond Fosdick, Rockefeller foundation president, at the dedication of the 200 inch Hale telescope, 3 June 1948.
