Ever feel as though your future is truly written in the stars? Not in the sense of destiny or fate, but rather that the stars are actually your future? For those seeking real life experience in the field of astronomy or any nature related career, the Kit Pitt Observatory is offering a worthwhile volunteer experience.

The observatory is currently recruiting volunteers for their docent training class, starting this October. The class will prep volunteers for hosting guided tours and serving guests of the observatory. Docents play an important role in the observatory’s educational goals are will share their knowledge with guests. Facilitating hands-on demonstrations, creating informative exhibits and hosting school groups are just a few things volunteers will be responsible for.

This opportunity is open to all and no prior astronomy experience is required. Applicants will need to meet their basic physical requirements and be able to work on their feet for long periods of time at a heightened elevation of 7,000 feet.

While this is an unpaid volunteer opportunity, transportation to the observatory and lunch will be provided for free. Other perks include a 15 percent discount at the gift store, free admittance to the Nightly Observing Program and access to guest speakers. Official vests and hats will be available at cost to those who complete the training program.

The training program will last seven weeks and will require participants to meet two to three times each week. This is a long term commitment and volunteers will be required to work at least three days a month for two years after the training course.

Each volunteer shift will last six hours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Participants will be able to select which days they would like to work up on the mountain but are asked to have some flexibility in their schedule.

Volunteers must be Kitt Pitt members or become members after their training to retain an active status.

The observatory is located on Kitt Peak, which is 56 miles southwest of central Tucson, and has no street address. If using GPS, you can enter in "intersection of Arizona State Route 86 and Arizona State Route 386.” Directions are available on their website.

If you see you stars aligning through sharing astronomy with others, engaging with the community and gaining valuable education in the astronomy field, registration is open now.

To apply, visit www.noao.edu/kpvc/Volunteer and download their application. For more information, email Robert Martino, Program Coordinator at martino@noao.edu.