Dark Skies Week: Daily Activities to Celebrate the Night!
On the left in the above picture is the view from the top of Piuma on a normal night. On the right is the view during Dark Skies Week. Head up there and check it out for yourself this week! (Photo Credit: Joan Slimocosky)This Dark Skies Week, we're not just asking you to turn off the lights; we're inviting you to truly experience the beauty and importance of a dark night sky. Here's a daily activity guide to help you connect with the cosmos:
Monday: Light Audit & Education Day
Activity: Conduct a light audit of your home and neighborhood. Take note of any unnecessary or poorly directed outdoor lighting.
Education: Spend time learning about the impact of light pollution. Visit the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) website (www.darksky.org) and explore their resources. Share what you learn with friends and family.
Tuesday: Stargazing Basics & Constellation Hunt
Activity: Choose a location away from bright city lights (even your backyard can work!). Use a stargazing app or a star chart to identify basic constellations.
Tip: Let your eyes adjust to the darkness for at least 20 minutes for optimal viewing.
Bonus: Try to find the big dipper, and use it to locate Polaris (the north star).
Wednesday: Moon Observation & Lunar Learning
Activity: Focus on observing the moon. Pay attention to its phase and any visible surface features.
Education: Learn about the moon's phases, its impact on tides, and its role in our night sky.
Bonus: if you have a telescope or binoculars, use them to view the craters and maria on the moon's surface.
Thursday: Nocturnal Wildlife Awareness
Activity: Take a quiet evening walk in a park or natural area. Listen for the sounds of nocturnal animals.
Education: Research the impact of light pollution on local wildlife. Learn about the creatures that rely on darkness for survival.
Tip: be sure to bring a red light flashlight if any light is needed to preserve your night vision, and the animal’s.
Friday: Dark Sky Photography & Reflection
Activity: If you have a camera, try taking some long-exposure photos of the night sky. Even simple shots can capture the beauty of the stars.
Reflection: Take some time to reflect on your experiences during Dark Skies Week. Consider the importance of preserving dark skies for future generations.
Action: Write a letter to your local government officials, requesting that they consider light pollution ordinances.
