Purpose
This page summarizes an early-stage concept intended to support initial discussions only. It is not a proposal, permit request, or construction plan. The aim is to understand whether a project of this nature would be appropriate, welcome, and feasible from a local and national perspective in Greenland.
Concept Summary
The concept is a boutique, low-capacity lodge designed around night-sky observation and education, including guided optical astronomy, aurora viewing during winter, indoor and outdoor viewing areas, and basic wellness facilities to support multi-day stays. The project is intentionally not mass tourism.
Initial Scale (Phase 1)
- Guest capacity: 24–30 guests maximum at any time
- Staff: ~15–25 depending on season (mix of local staff and visiting specialists)
- Buildings: main lodge, small observatory/education building, service/utility building
- Footprint: modest initial footprint; future expansion is not assumed
Environmental & Operational Intent
- Construction on stable bedrock only (no development on the ice sheet)
- Strict control of exterior lighting to preserve dark-sky conditions
- Conservative power and utility design
- Responsible handling of waste and wastewater
- No extractive or industrial activity
- Long-term maintenance and operability treated as essential requirements
Astronomy & Education
- One primary optical telescope for guided guest use
- Smaller instruments for education and visual observation
- Outdoor viewing areas for aurora and night-sky observation
- Indoor spaces explaining astronomy and Arctic sky conditions
The project is not proposed as a professional research observatory; potential collaboration with visiting scientists or institutions could be considered later if appropriate.
Location Considerations
Greenland is being considered due to very dark night skies, long winter nights, and clear governance structures. The Disko Bay / Ilulissat region may be referenced for discussion only, not as a selected site.
Consultation-First Approach
This concept is being explored in early dialogue with relevant local authorities before any site selection, financing, or public commitments. The intent is to understand whether a project of this nature would be appropriate in principle, what concerns should be addressed early, and how local participation and benefit should be approached if the concept progresses.
This is not a proposal or an application, and no commitments are being requested.
Status
- Unfunded
- Unannounced (no public commitments)
- Not site-specific
- Not time-constrained
Project Sponsor
Aaron Smith — independent project sponsor and systems architect. Engaging at an early stage to determine whether the concept would be appropriate and welcome in Greenland before forming an operating entity, selecting a site, or seeking financing.
If the concept progresses, the intention is to establish an appropriate Greenlandic operating structure and partnerships in line with local requirements and expectations.