What are Natural Lightscapes?A "Natural Lightscape" is a place or environment characterized by the natural rhythm of the sun and moon cycles, clean air, and of dark nights unperturbed by artificial light. Natural lightscapes, including dark night skies, are not only a resource unto themselves, but are an integral component of countless park experiences. Overview »How is Light Pollution Measured?To effectively manage any resource, we need to know what we have and what we've lost. "Light Pollution" – the brightness in the nighttime sky due to artificial light, can be seen from almost every park. The NPS has developed a system for measuring sky brightness to quantify the source and severity of light pollution. Monitoring & Data »Sharing the NightMany parks are finding that nighttime programs such as full moon walks, nocturnal wildlife viewing, and stargazing are most popular. Parks are great places to experience a natural lightscape, and the experience can be even more memorable with professional interpretation. Visitor Enjoyment »Cultural ConnectionsNight skies are a resource common to all cultures on Earth, have been a facet of human experience for a long time, are a metaphor for countless myths and religions, and have inspired innumerable works of art, literature, and spirit. Lightscape Management »Darkness as HabitatAnimals need food, water, shelter and space, but they also need darkness. The emerging field of Scotobiology (Scoto=darkness, biology=life) is uncovering many examples of wildlife impacted by artificial light. Lightscape Management »Better LightingCan we have dark night skies and still enjoy the convenience and safety of modern life? Yes, and it's fairly easy. Lighting that is energy efficient, easy on the eyes, and night sky friendly also provides greater safety and security. Outdoor Lighting »Night Sky TeamFormed in 1999, this small team of NPS scientists is dedicated to documenting the status of our night skies and protecting them for future generations. Who We Are » |
"If the Stars should appear one night in a thousand years, how would men believe and adore... But every night come out these envoys of beauty,
and light the universe with their admonishing smile." People and LightscapesThe national parks were established "to conserve the scenery, the natural and historic objects and the wild life therein and to provide for the enjoyment of the same in such manner and by such means as will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations..."Perhaps for too long we have ignored the other half of the scenery, the half that is night. Visitors to National Parks often are surprised and delighted to view the splendor of the cosmos. For many, it is an inspirational moment. The National Park Service mission is to share these natural lightscapes with the public and to protect them (and restore when necessary). Whether deep in a wilderness area of the Rocky Mountains, at the edge of a historic battlefield, or beside the stone ruins of a 1000 year old culture, a natural lightscape is crucial to making a park whole. The NPS is committed to championing this resource for everybody and building partnerships to save this part of our heritage. |
