Midmonth Check-In: February 2026 and Utah's Dark Sky License Plate

                        

  Introduction and Monthly Reminders   

     The unusual warm trend has continued in Utah through February. The state is known for its quality ski season, but this winter has produced low snowfall, and some ski resorts have had to temporarily shut down as they wait for a decent snowstorm. While the warmer temperatures have been welcome, I do prefer my winter season filled with snowstorms. On the flip side, as an astronomer, the lack of winter storms has been welcome, as long as the inversion stays away. While I have not taken out my larger telescopes to enjoy the night sky, I have used my small smart telescope, the ZWO Seestar S50, and my unaided eyes to satisfy my stargazing urges. I captured a few images of a major sunspot region on the Sun using the S50. I also enjoyed looking at Jupiter in Gemini, Orion, the Pleiades, and Taurus in the early night sky.  

    Still to come in February is the New Moon phase, which will allow astronomers to glimpse the fainter night sky objects and the Zodiacal Light. A dark-sky location will aid the observer's viewing experience. Comet Wierzchos will be climbing higher in the sky during the second half of February, making it easier to spot. Unfortunately, the comet will also dim as it gains altitude, requiring a telescope, binoculars, or a long-exposure photograph to see it. A dark sky location will also be a big help.     

Utah's Dark Sky License Plate

      Utah is home to the highest concentration of certified International Dark Sky Parks and Communities, not just in the United States, but in the entire world! Utah is also one of the world's premier destinations for astrotourism, a place where tourists go to view the stars because of its dark skies. Some national parks in Utah even offer ranger-led star talks to point out the constellations and tell their origin story. Several private companies in Utah also provide this experience and the use of their telescopes to enjoy the wonders of the night sky, for a price. As a testament to the quality of Utah's dark skies, nearly all the astrophotography images I have shared were taken in Utah, most within an hour or so of Salt Lake City. 

    In line with Utah's dark skies, the State is offering a way to show your support by getting a specialty license plate for your vehicle, trailer, or motorcycle. There is a small fee for the plate, which is the same as for any specialty or personalized license plate in Utah. Unfortunately, the state will only begin production after 500 or more orders have been placed. Visit Dark Sky Utah to apply for a new license plate for your vehicle to show that you support Utah's dark skies!    

         

    

Now get outside and look up!