Our History
Sirius Lookers was officially founded in July 1994 at West Sedona School, though our roots go back even further. In 1986, founders Dennis Young and Russ Nidey started the first astronomy club meetings in nearby Cottonwood, drawing 25-30 enthusiastic stargazers.
The club was formally established during a momentous time in astronomical history – July 1994, when Comet Shoemaker-Levy 9 collided with Jupiter in what became “the most observed celestial event in history.”
Our Founders
Dennis Young, Founder and President, is an internationally known astronomer and photographer who has called Sedona home for over 35 years. With over 50 years of stargazing experience, Dennis leads astronomy programs at schools, colleges, resorts, and state and national parks. He operates the longest-standing stargazing company in Sedona with the largest viewing telescope in the area – a custom-built instrument with a 3/4 meter mirror.
“You can see galaxies with the naked eye here. The low humidity, high altitude, and dark skies make Arizona special.”
— Dennis Young, Sedona Monthly (2007)
Russ Nidey (1929-2008), our beloved co-founder, was a professor at Yavapai College and systems manager for the Space Division at Kitt Peak National Observatory. His passion for astronomy education helped shape our club’s mission of public outreach.
Our Mission
“Our purpose is public awareness of science in the public’s eye.”
We are a FREE astronomy club – no membership dues or fees. With approximately 83 members, we host regular meetings, star parties, and educational events that often draw several hundred people. Anyone with an interest in LOOKING UP is welcome!
Dark Sky Advocacy
Sirius Lookers played a key role in Sedona’s designation as an International Dark Sky Community in 2014 – only the 8th location in the world to receive this honor. Dennis Young partnered with Keep Sedona Beautiful to achieve this milestone, which has since inspired nearby communities including Oak Creek (2016), Camp Verde (2018), and Cottonwood (2019) to pursue similar designations.
Notable Events
- Annual Grand Canyon Star Party – We regularly participate in this spectacular event at the canyon rim
- National Astronomy Day – Public telescope viewing events, including at local shopping centers
- 2023 “Ring of Fire” Eclipse – Organized community viewing with 88.9% solar coverage in Sedona
- 2024 Total Solar Eclipse – Community viewing event (68.5% coverage)
- Monthly Meetings – 3rd Wednesday of each month at Sedona Public Library
- Observatory Trips – Regular excursions to Mt. Graham, Kitt Peak, and California sites
In The News
Sirius Lookers and Dennis Young have been featured in numerous publications over the years:
2025
- Chris Ford explores sci-fi and space – Sedona Red Rock News (May 2025)
Former Pixar director and Astronomical Society of the Pacific CEO speaks at Sirius Lookers meeting about astronomical visualization.
2023
- Sedona gets ready for a ‘ring of fire’ eclipse – Sedona Red Rock News (October 2023)
Sirius Lookers partners with Sedona Public Library for annular eclipse viewing with hydrogen-alpha telescope.
2018
- Twinkle, twinkle Sedona stars! – 12News KPNX (July 2018)
TV feature on stargazing in Sedona’s International Dark-Sky Community with Dennis Young’s special telescope.
2016
- Astronomy Day gets a Sirius look – Sedona Red Rock News (April 2016)
Dennis Young brings homemade telescope to Safeway parking lot, showing Jupiter’s Great Red Spot to the public.
2010
- Sirius Lookers serious about stars – Sedona Red Rock News (June 2010)
Major club profile covering founding history, Dennis Young, Russ Nidey, and the 1986 Cottonwood origins.
2007
- Star Attractions! – Sedona Monthly
Profile of Dennis Young and Sirius Lookers, featuring trips to Mt. Graham and insights on Arizona’s dark skies.
Directory Listings
- Sky & Telescope Club Directory – Official astronomy club listing
- DarkSky International – Sedona Dark Sky Community recognition
- Sedona.org – Tourism guide featuring club viewing locations
- Visit Sedona – Stargazing tips mentioning Sirius Lookers
Dennis Young – Professional Stargazing
In addition to leading Sirius Lookers, Dennis Young offers professional stargazing experiences at several Sedona venues:
- L’Auberge de Sedona – Stargazing sessions Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday nights year-round
- Arabella Hotel Sedona – Regular astronomy events
- Private tours via Sedona Private Guides
The name “Sirius Lookers” comes from Sirius, the brightest star in the night sky, located in the constellation Canis Major. It’s a fitting name for a club dedicated to helping people look up and discover the wonders above.