As light pollution continues to rise, more countries around the world are committing to protecting their night skies. Since December 2024, DarkSky International have certified five new dark sky places! Check out the list below.
Antelope, Oregon, USA
Can you imagine viewing our beautiful Milky Way from the main street of a town? In the small historic community of Antelope, Oregon, you can do just that! The town was certified as an International Dark Sky Community in December 2024. The community had three main goals: to raise awareness about the importance of preserving the natural night environment, to promote dark sky friendly practices, and to establish Antelope as a model for other communities that seek to protect their night skies. Learn more here.
Browns Canyon National Monument, Colorado, USA
Browns Canyon National Monument in Colorado has joined the growing list of places dedicated to night sky protection, becoming certified as an International Dark Sky Park in December 2024. Community organisation "Friends of Browns Canyon" played a key role in securing the certification, earning praise for their tireless efforts. Kalem Lenard, Bureau of Land Management National Monument Manager for Browns Canyon said “all of the managing partners are really excited to celebrate the dark sky resource, further recognising Browns Canyon as a special place in the heart of Colorado.” Read more here.
Cottonwood Canyon State Park, Oregon, USA
Transforming Cottonwood Canyon's lighting during their certification process was no small feat, requiring a complete overhaul of their outdoor lighting! This huge task paid off though, with the park being designated as an International Dark Sky Park in December 2024. This ensures the celestial beauty of the sparkling stars can be enjoyed for generations to come, with Park Manager Scott Green noting that "it's a special place, but the true beauty of the Park is the magical display of the night sky."
Gower National Landscape, Wales
One of the last remaining areas with truly dark skies in South Wales has been protected, ensuring that this precious nocturnal habitat will be preserved for future generations. Gower National Landscape was designated as an International Dark Sky Community in January 2025. The area has been populated since prehistoric times with complex geology creating an incredible variety of scenery, and this new achievement will now safeguard the breathtaking beauty of the starlit skies. Learn more here.
Sisters, Oregon, USA
Stargazing has long been a way to feel connected with the universe, and in Sisters, Oregon that wonder and sense of place under the stars will continue thanks to their certification as an International Dark Sky Community in January 2025. The designation comes after years of advocacy by the Sisters community to raise awareness about preserving the night skies not just for their people, but also the wildlife that depends on darkness. Read the DarkSky International article here.
Congratulations to everyone involved in the designation of these new Dark Sky places! It's amazing to see such great results all thanks to the collaborative efforts of DarkSky International and local communities. These achievements will inspire others to preserve and protect our incredible night skies for us, and for future generations to enjoy.
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