Tucson’s Dark-Sky Association to Launch Global Activities
The Tucson-based International Dark-Sky Association invites Tucsonans and audiences worldwide to reconnect with the benefits of a dark, star-filled sky and learn how to reduce the negative impacts of light pollution to humans, wildlife, and ecosystems during International Dark Sky Week 2023, Apr. 15-22.
From Tucson to Turkey, information on events can be found at idsw.darksky.org. Hosted by Dark-Sky advocates, delegates, chapters, and Dark-Sky places, events include night walks, astrophotography lessons, star parties, proclamations, and special presentations about the benefits of dark skies to humans, wildlife and ecosystems.
“International Dark Sky Week provides a wonderful opportunity for people to discover value and beauty in natural darkness,” said Dark-Sky Executive Director Ruskin Harley. “It’s a great time to connect with the night, learn about what is at stake if light pollution continues to increase, and what you can do to reverse this trend.”
Light pollution due to human-made light sources is increasing globally at 9.6% per year, threatening wildlife and ecosystems, adversely impacting human health, wasting energy, contributing to global warming, and blocking views of the stars, planets and galaxies. However, Hartley said individuals and communities can implement immediate solutions using responsible outdoor lighting practices.