The End of Night? From The Starry, Starry Night to the Overpowering Street Light

For nearly a year now, I’ve had the privilege of living and working in Grand Canyon National Park. In late June, I was among some 1,100 attendees participating in one of the four nights of the 24th annual Grand Canyon Star Party. Astronomers from across the country, operating nearly 50 telescopes that were set up behind …

Interviewing Paul Bogard, author of The End of Night

I'm looking forward, with great excitement, to next Monday's interview with Paul Bogard, author of The End of Night. The cover of his book notes that: "A brilliantly starry night is one of nature's most thrilling wonders. Yet in our world of nights as bright as day, most of us no longer experience true darkness. …

Eugenics and Extropic Transhumanism: “Perfection” at What Cost?

Today, when we think of eugenics, our thoughts most likely turn to mid-twentieth century Germany and Nazi efforts to create a “pure race” by eliminating those considered unworthy of contributing to the chain of heredity. What many may not know, however, is that the eugenics movement was well established in the United States before it …

The Wild Life: Surprise Encounters in the Natural World

For two years, two months and two days - from late 2010 to the start of this new year - my husband and I traveled across the United States in search of "experiences outside of our experiences." Now settled for a time, I am preparing a book that traces the spirit-elevating lessons to be found …