Astronomical
Save our stars
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For decades astronomers have been aware of the impact of light pollution on the night time environment. As the love of light and our cities grew, astronomical observatories moved to more remote places. For this reason the national observatory moved from Sydney Observatory, then to Canberra and then to Siding Spring Mountain. The home of Australia's first Dark Sky Park.
For tens of thousands of years, our ancestors experienced a sky brimming with stars every night. This was ordinary, but has become extraordinary with the advent of light pollution.
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Here are some resources to inspire
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Aboriginal Night Skies -Tasmania
Recommendations to Keep Dark and Quiet Skies for Science and Society
UN Dark and Quiet Skies for Science and Society
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Here are some things to consider:
Younger generations are losing the connection with the night sky. This once common and universal heritage, is now being hidden by a veil of light pollution.
Experiencing the night sky provides perspective, inspiration, and leads us to reflect on our humanity and place in the universe.
Scientific discovery and even human curiosity itself is indebted to the natural night sky. The night sky has inspired science, religion, philosophy, art and literature.
Navigating the globe would not have been possible without access to the night sky.
International Dark Sky Places Program
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The International Dark-Sky Association established the International Dark Sky Places Program in 2001 recognises excellent stewardship of the night sky. Designations are based on stringent outdoor lighting standards and innovative community outreach.
Since the program began, more than one hundred and ten Parks, Communities, Reserves, and Sanctuaries have received International Dark Sky Place designations.
The Australasian Dark Sky Alliance can help you achieve the International Dark-Sky
Association designation.