International Dark Sky Discovery Center Breaks Ground in Fountain Hills

The International Dark Sky Discovery Center (IDSDC) broke ground on its new observatory in Fountain Hills, in sync with the solar eclipse. The new observatory, located at 13001 N La Montana Drive, was designed by SWABACK Architects + Planners, and is being built by McCarthy.

The $25 million, 23,000-square-foot facility will encompass a 27.5-inch PlaneWave telescope, housed within its 20.5-foot domed observatory, along with a state-of-the-art 65-seat planetarium. The center will also include a multipurpose auditorium with capacity for 150 guests, and a “Night Sky Experience” exhibit space equipped with interactive educational and historical components.

“What better way to usher in the construction of the International Dark Sky Discovery Center than at such a rare celestial event under the wide-open skies of Fountain Hills. The next such eclipse is another 20 years away,” said IDSDC Board President Joe Bill. “My hope is by that time the IDSDC will be an Arizona icon known around the world as a place that enables sky watchers of all ages to learn more about the observable universe.”

Located in Fountain Hills, Arizona, the IDSDC is positioned in a unique landscape as one of only two International Dark Sky Communities near a metropolitan area, while still maintaining low light pollution and ideal conditions for an observatory. Fountain Hills was recognized as the 17^th International Dark Sky Community in the world upon designation in January 2018.

The center’s primary intent is to highlight the importance of a dark sky and the potentially harmful effects of light pollution. In addition to astronomy, the center will also educate visitors on how light pollution affects humans, plants, animals, and other scientific processes. 

The IDSDC will offer activities, educational opportunities, and events for all ages, primarily serving the K-12 communities in Arizona. With the first research-grade telescope in Greater Phoenix, the IDSDC will allow Valley residents to view parts of the sky that have become hidden due to growing light pollution.

“We feel fortunate to help bring such a unique experience to life for Arizona residents and the city of Fountain Hills,” said McCarthy project director Justin Adams. “We support the IDSDC’s mission of furthering research, education, and dark sky preservation in one of the few Dark Sky communities in the country.” 

SWABACK has a rewarding history with Fountain Hills, spanning over 30 years.  Notable contributions include design of master planned developments, Downtown Visioning, and multiple custom homes.  Jon Bernhard, design architect and Partner-in-charge with SWABACK said “SWABACK provides design services for exciting projects around the world.  As a 34-year resident of Fountain Hills, I have a vested interest in this extraordinary facility.  The Discovery Center provides an exciting and unique recreational and educational amenity in the community for residents and visitors. I look forward to sharing the range of activities and functions with family and friends.”

Funding for the Discovery Center has come through the efforts of the IDSDC Board, which is in the process of seeking an additional $8 million for signature naming rights of the entire center, as well as $2 million for rights to specific elements of the center such as the observatory, theater, and the Night Sky Experience exhibit hall.

About the IDSDC

The multi-functional International Dark Sky Discovery Center (IDSDC) will focus on how dark sky preservation relates not only to astronomy, but also to the well-being of humans, plants, and animals. The non-profit IDSDC will be located in the world’s 17th International Dark Sky Community, Fountain Hills, Arizona.  To learn how you can help bring this amazing project to life, and donation opportunities go to www.darkskycenter.org.

About McCarthy

McCarthy is the oldest privately held national construction company in the country – with nearly 160 years spent collaborating with partners to solve complex building challenges on behalf of its clients. With an unrelenting focus on safety and a comprehensive quality program that spans all phases of every project, McCarthy utilizes industry-leading design phase and construction techniques combined with value-add technology to maximize outcomes. Repeatedly honored as a Best Place to Work and Healthiest Employer, McCarthy is ranked the 19th largest domestic builder (Engineering News-Record, May 2023). With approximately 6,000 salaried employees and craft professionals, the firm has offices in St. Louis; Atlanta; Collinsville, Ill.; Kansas City, Kan.; Omaha, Neb.; Phoenix; Las Vegas; Denver; Austin, Channelview, Dallas, and Houston, Texas; and San Diego, Newport Beach, Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Jose and Sacramento, Calif. McCarthy is 100% employee owned. More information about the company is available online at www.mccarthy.com or by following the company on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.

About SWABACK  

SWABACK is an ever-evolving group of multi-talented architect and planning professionals, deeply inspired through collaboration to better create our communities and built environments, by incorporating the most innovative design solutions, technologies, and ideas. For over 45 years, SWABACK has actively pursued the most challenging and interesting assignments around the world, resulting in a diverse, competitive portfolio of award-winning and highly recognized projects.