Did you know that Pluto was discovered right here in northern Arizona?

This weekend, I visited the Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff for the first time, and I was blown away by the history and discoveries that have happened there.

It’s a national historic landmark, an active research center, and a space for visitors to explore programs, buildings, telescopes, and artifacts.

Percival Lowell established the observatory in 1894, and many famous discoveries were made there—including Pluto, with the original telescope still on display.

My favorite part was taking a look through the telescopes on the open-deck observatory, where I saw Jupiter, the moon, and a bright star. It’s mind-blowing to me that I could get such an up close look at things that are more than hundreds of millions of miles away with the use of a man-made tool.

Inside the Historic Clark Dome that houses the Clark Refractor telescope. (Alyssa Bickle/The Copper Courier)

Another must-see at the observatory is the Historic Clark Dome, where you can look through the same telescope that Percival Lowell used, inside the telescope dome that looks very similar to the one Lowell had constructed. 

Once the sun goes down, the observatory is also a great place to stargaze, as Flagstaff is a designated dark sky city and the Lowell Observatory limits light pollution. 

Have you been to the Lowell Observatory? Let me know!

A new Buckeye community with home prices starting in the mid-$300,000s is open for sales.

Phoenix set a new record when the temperature hit 93 degrees on March 2, according to the National Weather Service. 

March is a perfect time to bring out your sandals, wear a short-sleeved shirt, and walk around at these events in metro Phoenix.

😋 Food connects these ASU students to their culture and community. (The State Press)

🧑‍🍳 A Phoenix chef will be competing in a new Guy Fieri show. (Phoenix New Times)

✊ This Tucson nonprofit provides resources and a safe space for the city’s Latino community. (CALÓ News)

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Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Alyssa Bickle with stories from Sahara Sajjadi, USA Today Network via Reuters Connect, and Anita Snow. It was edited by Paula Solis.

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