by Mason from Flagstaff asks Santa about a movie, learns about the San Francisco Peaks, and hears about Flagstaff’s Lowell Observatory, where Pluto was discovered
Dear Santa, my name is Mason and I am nine years old. I live in Flagstaff, Arizona, where my dad says a whole new planet was actually discovered right here in our own town, using a telescope built by one dedicated astronomer.
Dear Mason, your dad is entirely right, and I have real admiration for that particular discovery myself.
Santa, I have three questions.
My first question is, is Santa in The Polar Express? My cousin loves that movie, but I honestly do not think you keep track of every appearance.
I try to stay neutral about discussing specific movies in too much detail myself, Mason, though a version of me does appear in several animated features over the years. I am far more interested in hearing about your own Christmas than any single film.
My second question is about our mountains. My teacher says the San Francisco Peaks rise close to Flagstaff. Is that true?
It is, Mason. The San Francisco Peaks rise dramatically near Flagstaff, the highest mountains in all of Arizona. Flying near those snow-capped peaks each Christmas Eve is a genuinely beautiful part of my American route.
My third question is about Lowell Observatory. My teacher says an important dwarf planet was discovered there. Is that true?
It is true, Mason. Pluto was discovered at Lowell Observatory in 1930, a landmark moment in astronomy that put your town firmly on the scientific map. I always admire that kind of patient, careful stargazing whenever I fly over.
Merry Christmas, Santa.
Your friend,
Mason Whitfield
Flagstaff, Arizona
P.S. Do you ever stop to look through a telescope yourself?
Whenever the schedule allows, Mason. The night sky never once disappoints.
