Derek Wallentinsen

Astronomy Outreach, Natural Sciences

Albuquerque, New Mexico, United States

About

Naturalist with a master's degree in natural science. Experienced teacher with involvement in public outreach. Dark-sky and solar astronomy expertise in areas of programs, telescopes and equipment. DarkSky International member and author of successful IDSP application. Award-winning National Park Service astronomy interpreter. A lifelong astronomer, beginning at a very early age as a child growing up in the New Mexico darkness. After sojourns in the East, Midwest and Pacific Coast, I came back to live in the Southwest, in no small part because of the inky nighttime skies. Starting in the very best way to start, as an amateur, I went on to earn a M.S. Degree in astrophysics. Like many, I’ve lived in large cities. However, I’ve never stopped seeking out the wilderness and its dark skies above. After careers in teaching and industry, the dark skies in the region inspired me to fight for and help preserve dark night skies. I’m proud of my involvement in the designation of Dinosaur National Monument, El Morro National Monument and other parks as International Dark Sky Parks. Recently retired from the National Park Service, I’m an active member of DarkSky International and on the State Council of New Mexico’s DSI Chapter. Astronomy in Chile Educator Ambassador NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador NASA ASP Eclipse Ambassador

Experience

  • Owner at ShadowCaster
    Jan 2006 - Present · 20 yrs 7 mos

    Trademarked business, sole proprietor. Astronomy and natural history projects. Imaging of natural and general subjects for a variety of end uses such as websites, nature cards, prints, books. Techniques including microphotography and astrophotography.

  • Astronomy Interpretive Ranger at National Park Service
    Jul 2013 - Jul 2021 · 8 yrs 1 mo

    National Park Service ranger improving visitor experiences at parks and public lands. I created and presented night-sky campground programs (including telescopic viewing) as well as informal solar programs during the day at national parks and monuments. Involved in outreach with local observatories. Involved in creating applications for International Dark Sky Parks. As a ranger, roved the park and its trails engaging visitors and checking resource conditions, as well as staffing the park visitor center.

  • Technical writer at Celestron
    2007 - Dec 2012 · 6 yrs

    Manufacturer of telescopes, microscopes, binoculars, photographic lenses. Produced Knowledgebase on website. Technical support for dealers and customers. On-camera talent for how-to videos. Outreach at star parties and the like. Special projects. Product testing and development. www.celestron.com

  • Online Manager at Office Depot
    2000 - 2003 · 3 yrs

    Managed website content for www.vikingop.com and Viking Call Centers Intranet site.

  • Customer Relations Manager at Viking Office Products
    1997 - 2000 · 3 yrs

    Managed 15 customer service representatives, including hiring, training, and development. Opened call center as part of original management team.