After Disclosure Day:
An Astronomer’s Survival Guide to Alien Claims
Saturday, October 10, 2026
6:30 – 9:00 PM
Red Rock Canyon Visitor Center
Join astronomer and College of Southern Nevada professor Matthias Schmitt as he explores UFOs, alien claims, Hollywood’s portrayal of extraterrestrial life, and the Drake Equation. Learn how astronomers evaluate extraordinary evidence and spot misleading arguments in the search for life beyond Earth. Presentation will be followed by stargazing, a constellation tour, and telescope viewing.
For five years, Matthias Schmitt served as the Dark Skies Coordinator at Cedar Breaks National Monument, where he led dark sky preservation initiatives and public astronomy programming in southern Utah. His work has focused on advancing responsible outdoor lighting practices, strengthening regional dark-sky advocacy, and fostering public engagement with the scientific and cultural value of natural darkness. He currently teaches astronomy and physics as an adjunct professor at the College of Southern Nevada and Southern Utah University, guiding students through both the technical foundations and broader implications of modern astronomy. He also co-founded several astrotourism companies in the American Southwest, helping develop high-quality guided stargazing programs that connect visitors to the region’s remarkable night skies. Matthias holds a Master of Science in Astronomy with distinction from Swinburne University in Australia and is an active member of multiple professional astronomical organizations.
Ready for More Stargazing in 2026? We Need Your Help!
Our 2025 Star Parties were a massive success, bringing over 1,200 people together under the beautiful dark skies of Red Rock Canyon. This year, we’re planning even more opportunities to connect our community with the cosmos, but we can’t do it without you!
We are launching a fundraising initiative to support our goal of achieving the Urban Night Sky Place designation from DarkSky International.
Your donation will directly fund:
- Expanded Programming including night hikes and more frequent star gazing parties
- Essential Supplies like lighting, informational materials, and equipment to run safe and engaging star parties
- Educational Presentations from expert speakers on astronomy, light pollution and more
- Scientific Data Collection in order to successfully complete our application
Help us make 2026 our biggest and brightest year yet! Your support lights the way for conservation, education, and the protection of Red Rock Canyon’s breathtaking night sky.
Donate today and help us preserve the night sky experience at Red Rock Canyon!
Photo credit: Ben Robertson
Donate to the Project
Learn More
For details on the definition of an Urban Night Sky Place and eligibility criteria, visit the Dark Sky International website:
