The Arizona state park received the dark sky designation from the International Dark-Sky Association for its commitment to preserving the night sky.

Tucson, AZ -- (SBWIRE) -- 11/12/2014 -- Nestled between the bright cities of Phoenix and Tucson, Oracle State Park Center for Environmental Education is a dark sky oasis in the desert. Now the park's impressive night skies will be protected for future generations. The International Dark-Sky Association is honored to name Oracle State Park an International Dark Sky Park. The prestigious designation is the result of exceptional efforts to protect the area's dark skies and raise public awareness about the issue. Designated at the "Silver" tier level, the park is the first in the Arizona State Park system to receive IDA recognition.

"We welcome Arizona's Oracle State Park as the world's newest International Dark Sky Park," said IDA Acting Executive Director Scott Kardel. "The team there has done a commendable job in protecting the park's night sky."

Encompassing 3,948 acres (1,598 hectares) of land, the park is located in the northeastern foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains in Pinal County, Arizona. It takes its name from the nearby, unincorporated community of Oracle, which was founded by prospectors in the 1870s. At an elevation of 1,370 meters (4,500 feet), the park offers summertime relief from the intense heat of the desert floor below. Park visitors enjoy hiking, wildlife observing, and a variety of nature education programs.

Today's designation owes much to the efforts of the Oracle Dark Skies Committee (ODSC), whose members include Oracle-area residents, members of the Friends of Oracle State Park, and State Park Rangers. Michael Weasner, a retired former U.S. Air Force pilot and aerospace industry manager, chairs the group and spearheaded the effort to obtain the IDA recognition.

"Oracle is proud to have its State Park receive this important designation to help preserve Arizona's natural resources," Weasner said. "The Oracle Dark Skies Committee worked hard to complete the necessary tasks and documentation in record time and is thrilled that Oracle State Park has received the designation."

Relics Of Arizona History
Illinois brothers Neil and Lee Kannally purchased the original 160-acre (65-hectare) ranch in 1903. Neil Kannally left Illinois the year before, settling in the Oracle area to become a ranch hand. He believed Arizona's dry desert air would help with his tuberculosis. In 1905, Lee, their two sisters and a brother joined Neil and settled on the ranch.

Over the following decades, land purchases expanded the ranch to over 50,000 acres (20,000 hectares). The Kannallys built a Spanish colonial-style ranch house in 1932 that remains the focal point of the property. All five of the siblings lived on the ranch for the rest of their lives and occupied the ranch house until the death of the youngest sister Lucile in 1976.

Most of the ranch land was sold to the Magma Copper Company in 1952, leaving an area of about 4,000 acres (1,600 hectares) that Lucile Kannally willed to Defenders of Wildlife, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving animals and plants native to North America. In 1985, the Defenders transferred the house and ranch land to the State of Arizona with the goal of founding a new state park. For several years while closed to the public, the park offered environmental education trail programs for visiting school groups. In 2001, after a lengthy process, Oracle State Park was named a state park and opened to the public with the dual mission of serving as a wildlife refuge and environmental education center.

"The International Dark Sky Park 'Silver' designation fits extremely well with the mission and goals of Oracle State Park as a Center for Environmental Education," said Steve Haas, Park Manager.

In The Shadow Of The Big City
The park is only about 32 km (20 miles) from Tucson, a city of nearly one million people. Despite its proximity to the city, the park is fortunate that the Santa Catalina Mountains screen out much of the glow of the city's lights. This puts an authentic dark-sky experience within an hour's drive for hundreds of thousands of people in southern Arizona. Protection of Oracle State Park's dark skies is enhanced by park policies and restrictive outdoor lighting ordinances in Pinal and Pima Counties, and in Tucson itself.

The park has attracted increasing interest from casual stargazers and the area amateur astronomy community. In support of its application for IDA recognition submitted by ODSC, the group held a number of events at the park to bring visitors together with telescopes to experience firsthand the wonders of the night sky. One such event, held in late June, attracted more than 350 visitors, some of whom traveled from as far away as Phoenix.

"The Kannally Ranch House patios offer a spectacular venue with scenic views for special events at the park, day and night," said Park Ranger Jennifer Rinio. "When it's a summer evening, and especially if live music accompanies the activity, locals bring their own picnic feast and arrive early to grab the patio tables."

A Bright Future For Dark Sky Parks In Arizona
Arizona State Parks plans to give high priority to dark skies at its 30 state parks and natural areas, applying lessons learned in the Oracle application toward the goal of achieving many more IDA designations in Arizona. IDA's application process for International Dark Sky Park certification includes elements such as adoption of park policies that control the amount and type of outdoor lighting allowed on the property. To simplify the application process for other Arizona state parks, Oracle's lighting plan is being adapted for use throughout the state park system.

"Arizona State Parks' conservation efforts are an important part of the agency's mission. We are excited to have Oracle State Park designated as a dark sky park and hope to see many more parks added," Arizona State Parks Director Bryan Martyn said.

Arizona's state and national park dark sky conservation programs add economic, ecological and educational value to both rural and urban communities alike, drawing higher levels of park visitation. Data from other IDA International Dark Sky Parks suggest that neighboring communities gain tangible economic benefits from the added tourist visibility. The partnership between IDA and Arizona State Parks is expected to help improve the long-term financial prospects of many rural State Parks properties.

Finally, strong support for dark-skies conservation presents an important opportunity to advance education and public outreach in Arizona according to Dr. Bob Casavant, the Arizona State Parks Manager of Natural Resources, Science, and Research. "Prudent and committed community partnerships continue to assist Arizona State Parks and other resource management agencies in advancing conservation of Arizona's truly world-renowned night skies, and related successful STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) programs across the state," Casavant said.

Image Captions
(KRHStarTrails_Weasner_72dpi.png)
Left: Star trails above the Kannally Ranch House at Oracle State Park.
http://bit.ly/10EP1R5

(OSPMilkyWay_Weasner_72dpi.png)
Right: The summer Milky Way Rises over Oracle State Park.
http://bit.ly/10EPfYj
(Credit for both photos: Michael Weasner)

About the IDA Dark Sky Places Program
IDA established the International Dark Sky Places conservation program in 2001 to recognize excellent stewardship of the night sky. Designations are based on stringent outdoor lighting standards and innovative community outreach. Since the program began, eight Communities, 20 Parks and nine Reserves have received International Dark Sky designations.

For more information about the International Dark Sky Places Program, visit http://www.darksky.org/international-dark-sky-places/about-ids-places

About IDA
The International Dark Sky Association, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Tucson, Arizona, advocates for the protection of the nighttime environment and dark night skies by educating policymakers and the public about night sky conservation and promoting environmentally responsible outdoor lighting.

More information about IDA and its mission may be found at darksky.org

Media Inquiries
International Dark-Sky Association
Dr. John Barentine (Dark Sky Places Program Manager) john@darksky.org; 520-293-3198

Arizona State Parks
Monica Enriquez (Public Information Officer) pio@azstateparks.gov; 602-542-6997
Ellen Bilbrey (Public Information Officer) pio@azstateparks.gov; 602-542-1996 (office) or 602-228-8518 (mobile)

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

The International Dark-Sky Association encourages responsible use of LED technology.

Tucson, AZ -- (SBWIRE) -- 10/08/2014 -- The Nobel Committee announced today that it has awarded the 2014 Nobel Prize for physics to three Japanese physicists for their invention of a revolutionary lighting technology. Isamu Akasaki and Hiroshi Amano of Japan and Shuji Nakamura were cited for "the invention of efficient blue light-emitting diodes, which has enabled bright and energy-saving white light sources."

Their groundbreaking work on light-emitting diodes (LEDs) more than 20 years ago was crucial in production of the first "white" LEDs. These energy efficient LEDs are increasingly replacing conventional lighting technologies.

The National Lighting Bureau of the U.S. Department of Energy recently estimated that white LED lighting systems will account for 74 percent of lighting sales in the United States by 2030, reducing electricity demand for lighting by nearly 50 percent in the next two decades. In its media statement today announcing the Prize, the Nobel Committee noted that while "incandescent light bulbs lit the 20th Century, the 21st Century will be lit by LED lamps."

The International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) applauds today's Nobel announcement, but urges the responsible use of LEDs, particularly at night. The energy-efficient nature of LEDs encourages the use of excessive amounts of light. Research has shown that historically, when there is an improvement in the efficiency of lighting technology, a greater amount of outdoor lighting is used.

"There's no question that LEDs are here to stay," said IDA Acting Executive Director Scott Kardel "The question is, will we have the wisdom to apply this new technology without being excessive and wasteful. If we light properly we can use LEDs to save energy, improve visibility, and lower light pollution levels."

Another issue to consider when using LEDs at night is the level of blue-rich, white light they emit. Exposure to blue light at night has known negative effects on ecology and is thought to cause certain kinds of chronic disease in humans. It can also increase glare compromising human vision, especially in the aging eye. Lastly, the blue component of outdoor white LED lighting increases the brightness of the night sky more than older lighting technologies. IDA warned of these hazards in its 2010 white paper, "Visibility, Environmental, and Astronomical Issues Associated with Blue-Rich White Outdoor Lighting."

IDA recommends a correlated color temperature (CCT) of 3000 Kelvin or less for white LED lighting systems. These lights emit less blue light, while providing good rendition of colors. In ecologically sensitive areas, the CCT should be as low as possible to limit harm to wildlife. Information on color temperature is now found on the packaging of most lighting products.

Risks can be further minimized by dimming or turning off lights at night and restricting lighting to the exact space and in the proper amount required for particular tasks.

Cities around the globe are rapidly converting their existing streetlights to LED in an effort to conserve energy and save money. These savings can be maximized by ensuring that our streets are not overly lit and that the new technologies especially suited to LEDs, such as dimming and other lighting controls, are also put into place.

The promise of LED technology to light the world in a new way has drawn a major scientific accolade, but with new capabilities come new concerns about their application. Learn more about outdoor lighting, blue light at night, and dark skies on the IDA website at darksky.org.

About the International dark-Sky Association
The International Dark Sky Association, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Tucson, Arizona, advocates for the protection of the nighttime environment and dark night skies by educating policymakers and the public about night sky conservation and promoting environmentally responsible outdoor lighting. More information about IDA and its mission may be found at darksky.org.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

The International Dark-Sky Association recognizes the Bisophere Reserve for their commitment to dark skies.

Tucson, AZ -- (SBWIRE) -- 08/07/2014 -- Far from major cities, the truly dark skies of Germany's Rhoen Biosphere Reserve offers visitors a respite from the frenzied rhythms of 21st century urban life. In today designating the Biosphere Reserve an International Dark Sky Reserve, the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) recognizes the efforts of municipal governments, regional authorities and dedicated local activists to protect the dark Rhoen nights. The new Dark Sky Reserve, the world's ninth, received Silver-tier status from IDA. In Germany, it will be known as "Sternenpark Rhoen."

"We welcome Germany's latest entry into the family of Reserves and Parks that exhibit exceptional night sky protections," said IDA Acting Executive Director Scott Kardel. "The Rhoen Biosphere Reserve's management and regional community leaders have come together to preserve a gem for all of Europe."

The IDA designation is a welcome addition to the accolades received by the Biosphere Reserve leadership. "We are very proud of this project and fully aware that it is something special," said Torsten Raab, head of the Biosphere Reserve Administration in the German state of Hesse. "The starry night sky is a cultural good and we welcome people to come to the Rhoen and enjoy a wonderful experience and a really dark sky," Raab said.

A New Level Of Environmental Protection
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) established the Rhoen Biosphere Reserve, also known as Biosphaerenreservat Rhoen, in 1991. It comprises 1720 square kilometers (664 square miles) of protected lands including the entire central region of the Rhoen Mountains, where the German federal states of Hesse, Bavaria and Thuringia meet. Reaching elevations of up to 950 meters (3,100 feet), the Rhoen region is often referred to as the "Land der offenen Fernen" ("land of endless horizons").

Given the population density of central Europe, it is one of the few remaining, yet accessible dark locations in Germany offering outstanding views of the night sky. A growing understanding of dark skies' critical role in ecological conservation led to the inclusion of light pollution reduction goals in regional management documents. These goals have been given the highest priority for the period of 2014-2020.

An IDA Dark Sky Reserve has a "core/buffer" structure, similar to the design of UNESCO Biosphere Reserves. The darkest night skies of the Reserve are in the core zone. The buffer zone, which includes more populated areas, protects the core's dark skies through the enacting of responsible outdoor light policies by municipal councils. The Rhoen Dark Sky Reserve is unique within the Dark Sky Places Program in that its "core" consists of three distinct, non-contiguous areas: Hohe Geba in the northeast, Lange Rhoen in the center, and Schwarze Berge in the south.

IDA Designation Grows From The Grassroots
In 2009, a student group at the nearby University of Applied Sciences in Fulda began the process to gain IDA recognition for the Rhoen. Sabine Frank, then a student at the university, took the lead on the student project and brought the idea to the Biosphere Reserve management despite their initial skepticism. "I was quite persistent, and soon the topic of light pollution and the establishment of a Dark Sky Reserve within the Rhoen took off like a rocket," Frank explained.

At the invitation of the Biosphere Reserve, Dr. Andreas Haenel of the Museum am Schoelerberg in Osnabrueck visited the site in 2011 to gauge the quality of its night sky. "The region proved to have one of the darkest skies in Germany with an extraordinary natural environment," explained Haenel. "The people of the Rhoen people can be proud of the treasure above them every night."

Preservation of the dark "core" of a Dark Sky Reserve is the primary aim of an IDA designation, requiring participation by communities to control the growth of light pollution in the "buffer" areas. As part of the application to IDA, Frank, Haenel and their colleagues compiled an inventory of more than 5,000 individual light fixtures in 81 communities comprising a population of some 34,000 people within the Biosphere Reserve boundaries. They also proposed a dark sky-friendly outdoor lighting policy that has been adopted by communities representing 88 percent of the population of the Biosphere Reserve.

To measure the area's light pollution in the coming years, a scientific monitoring station will be installed at the Wasserkuppe, the highest peak in the Rhoen Mountains. The applicants also developed a strong public outreach campaign about the importance of protecting the dark skies of the Reserve's core zones. Their efforts include stargazing events, media appearances, museum exhibits, local tourism development, and an extensive program of public presentations. "We have tried to not only convey the problems of light at night, but also to offer solutions," Haenel said. "We hope that the designation of the Rhoen will lead more people into perceiving and appreciating natural nights and nightscapes far beyond the borders of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve."

Images
Star trails over the Wasserkuppe near the core zone of the Rhoen Dark Sky Reserve. (Credit: Werner Klug) http://bit.ly/1nsqQZT

A fisheye-lens view of the Milky Way over the Hohe Geba region of the Rhoen Dark Sky Reserve. The greenish tint is from airglow, a night sky phenomenon requiring extremely dark conditions to readily see. (Credit: Andreas Haenel) http://bit.ly/1nsr2Iw

About the IDA Dark Sky Places Program
IDA established the International Dark Sky Places conservation program in 2001 to recognize excellent stewardship of the night sky. Designations are based on stringent outdoor lighting standards and innovative community outreach. Since the program began, eight Communities, 19 Parks and nine Reserves have received International Dark Sky designations. For more information about the International Dark Sky Places Program, visit http://www.darksky.org/international-dark-sky-places/about-ids-places.

About IDA
The International Dark Sky Association, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Tucson, Arizona, advocates for the protection of the nighttime environment and dark night skies by educating policymakers and the public about night sky conservation and promoting environmentally responsible outdoor lighting. More information about IDA and its mission may be found at http://www.darksky.org.

Media Inquiries
International Dark-Sky Association
Dr. John Barentine, Dark Sky Places Program Manager
john@darksky.org
+1 520 293 3198

Rhoen Dark Sky Reserve
Sabine Frank, Projektkoordination "Sternenpark im Biosphaerenreservat Rhoen"
sabine.frank@landkreis-fulda.de
+49 661 251 99 59

Dr. Andreas Haenel, Museum am Schoelerberg
ahaenel@uos.de
+49 0541 5600326

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

The International Dark-Sky Association recognizes Copper Breaks State Park and Enchanted Rock State Natural Area for their commitment to dark skies.

Tucson, AZ -- (SBWIRE) -- 08/06/2014 -- Texas state parks remain among the few public places in one of the nation's most populous and increasingly urbanized states where the starry heavens can be viewed in all their celestial glory with only minimal intrusion of artificial light. Copper Breaks State Park in the Panhandle Plains and Enchanted Rock State Natural Area in the Hill Country are the first Texas state parks to be designated International Dark Sky Parks by the International Dark-Sky Association.

Copper Breaks and Enchanted Rock, which were awarded the highest "Gold-tier" night skies status by IDA, join Big Bend National Park and the City of Dripping Springs as the only locations in Texas to have earned the coveted Dark Sky Places recognition. Since 1988, the non-profit, Tucson-based organization has been promoting night sky conservation and environmentally responsible outdoor lighting throughout the world.

"Texas is rapidly becoming a national leader in the dark sky movement," says John Barentine, manager of IDA's Dark Sky Places Program. "There are some really dedicated folks in Texas' parks and communities taking significant steps to protect the night skies and educate policymakers and the public about the importance of preserving one of the state's most precious natural resources."

Since IDA established the Dark Sky Places Program in 2001 to recognize excellent stewardship of the night sky, eight Communities, 19 Parks and eight Reserves have received IDA recognition.

For many years, Texas state parks in rural areas, such as Copper Breaks and Enchanted Rock, have conducted regular star-gazing programs and events to engage and educate the public about the importance of preserving pristine night skies that make the viewing of constellations, planets, stars, satellites and other objects possible. In recent years, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department started recognizing the impact of urban sprawl and resulting light pollution on many of its 95 state parks and is developing policies and lighting management plans to address the issue. Texas State Parks leadership is partnering with the McDonald Observatory and the Texas chapter of the IDA to audit the night skies above the parks and implement their recommendations.

"One of our most valued attributes in Texas is its natural beauty," says Texas State Parks Director Brent Leisure. "This beauty is not limited to the light of day, but extends into the night sky where Texans can enjoy a front-row seat to the splendor of the universe. State parks and natural areas offer some of our very best public venues to experience this heavenly show."

Management at both Copper Breaks and Enchanted Rock underwent a lengthy IDA application process to document the sites' dark sky attributes and outline steps already taken to comply with dark-sky best practices, as well as to show wide support from TPWD leadership, local governments, park Friends Groups and community conservation and astronomical organizations. The applications had to be favorably reviewed by the IDA's Dark Sky Places Committee and subsequently approved by the association's board of directors for the parks to attain the coveted Dark Sky Park designation. Other Texas state parks, including Big Bend Ranch State Park in far West Texas, have applied or are in the process of applying for Dark Sky status.

Copper Breaks State Park, located 13 miles south of Quanah and 22 miles south of the Oklahoma border, has for 19 years capitalized on its superb celestial assets by hosting Star Walks and other astronomy programs, according to park superintendent David Turner. Turner says the park replaced many of its outdoor lights with more efficient, low-light fixtures and retrofitted others to keep light from emanating upward, helping keep night skies darker and lowering energy bills.

Similarly, Enchanted Rock, named for its giant pink granite dome rising from the Llano Uplift 15 miles north of Fredericksburg, reduced manmade glare, benefiting star parties introduced to park visitors in 2011. Superintendent Doug Cochran says 90 percent of Enchanted Rock's lighting now complies with IDA lighting requirements, "not only saving energy, but also assuring that visitors from the city experience a night sky uninterrupted by bright lights and skyscrapers."

To learn more about stargazing opportunities in Texas state parks and night sky darkness ratings as measured by the Bortle Scale, visit: http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/programs/dark_skies/.

For more information about the International Dark Sky Places Program, visit http://www.darksky.org/international-dark-sky-places/about-ids-places. More information about light pollution and the negative effects of light on visibility, wildlife, human health and energy use is available on the IDA website at http://www.darksky.org.

Media Contacts: Rob McCorkle, TPWD, (830) 866-3533 or robert.mccorkle@tpwd.texas.gov
John Barentine, International Dark-Sky Assn. (520) 293-3198 or john@darksky.org

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

The International Dark-Sky Association recognizes Sedona for its commitment to dark skies.

Tucson, AZ -- (SBWIRE) -- 08/04/2014 -- The red rock scenery of Sedona has long been an iconic setting for Hollywood films about the Old West and a popular magnet for artists and tourists alike. Sedona is committed to preserving its small-town charm, and thanks to the sustained efforts of concerned residents, its dark night skies. In recognition of Sedona's efforts protecting this important natural resource, the International Dark-Sky Association has designated the city of Sedona the world's eighth International Dark Sky Community.

"We are pleased to honor the dedication and hard work of the many Sedona citizens committed to protecting the nighttime environment," said Acting IDA Executive Director Scott Kardel.

Sedona, a community of more than 10,000 people, is a prime tourist destination featuring a variety of outdoor activities. The city hopes to highlight its commitment to dark skies preservation as a more visible draw for new residents and businesses.

"Sedona is known worldwide for its spectacular natural environment," explained Sedona Mayor Rob Adams. "It is my personal goal to take a leadership role in establishing Sedona as a model city in sustainability and environmental stewardship. Preserving our dark skies is just one component of this goal."

The events culminating in today's announcement began more than 40 years ago. Sedona residents founded Keep Sedona Beautiful (KSB) in 1972 to address rapid growth and a lack of regional long-term planning. Over time, KSB members began to consider light pollution as pressing an environmental issue as air and water quality and the protection of the Red Rocks.

Fifteen years ago, city staff began working with KSB, the business community, and local citizens to identify problem outdoor lighting installations and to incorporate solutions into a revised code. Lessons learned from policy changes enacted in Flagstaff, Arizona – the world's first International Dark Sky Community – guided efforts to update and strengthen the Sedona code language. The new outdoor lighting ordinance became law in 2001.

"Over the years KSB has worked with various government jurisdictions and conducted educational outreach to help protect our skies from light pollution," said KSB Past President Tom O'Halleran. "KSB is committed to continuing those efforts in the future."

As part of the process of becoming a Dark Sky Community, the City of Sedona appropriated funds to bring City Hall into full compliance with the code and to provide resources for lighting retrofit projects such as that carried out at Posse Grounds Park. In 2012-13 the city's Outdoor Lighting Small Grant Program provided 50 percent matching funds totaling $10,000 to encourage businesses to bring their grandfathered outdoor lighting into compliance with the ordinance. Earlier this year Sedona approved further protections that expanded the use of adaptive controls and light curfews for city-owned lighting.

The dedication of Sedona residents and city officials has certainly paid off according to Dr. Stephen Leshin, a physician with a retirement home in Sedona. "Living here, it's hard to imagine how many millions of people who live in light polluted cities can't even see individual bright stars," he said. "We are fortunate and grateful here in Sedona to have dark skies to enjoy."

Images (Credit for both images: Susan Amon)
The Milky Way rises above Cathedral Rock outside Sedona.
Low-resolution: http://darksky.org/idsp/Images/Cathedral_Rock_MW_Amon_72dpi.png
High-resolution: http://darksky.org/idsp/Images/Cathedral_Rock_MW_Amon_300dpi.tif

Skywatchers enjoy the dark skies of Red Rock State Park near Sedona.
Low-resolution: http://darksky.org/idsp/Images/RRSP_Star_Party_Amon_72dpi.png
High-resolution: http://darksky.org/idsp/Images/RRSP_Star_Party_Amon_300dpi.tif

About the IDA Dark Sky Places Program
IDA established the International Dark Sky Places conservation program in 2001 to recognize excellent stewardship of the night sky. Designations are based on stringent outdoor lighting standards and innovative community outreach. Since the program began, eight Communities, 17 Parks and eight Reserves have received International Dark Sky designations. For more information about the International Dark Sky Places Program, visit darksky.org/international-dark-sky-places/about-ids-places.

About IDA
The International Dark Sky Association, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Tucson, Arizona, advocates for the protection of the nighttime environment and dark night skies by educating policymakers and the public about night sky conservation and promoting environmentally responsible outdoor lighting. More information about IDA and its mission may be found at darksky.org.

Media Inquiries
International Dark-Sky Association
- Dr. John Barentine, Dark Sky Places Program Manager, john@darksky.org, +1 520-293-3198
Keep Sedona Beautiful
- Ms. Joanne Kendrick, jck48@icloud.com, +1 928-284-1274

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

The International Dark-Sky Association recognizes Hovenweep for its commitment to dark skies.

Tucson, AZ -- (SBWIRE) -- 07/01/2014 -- The star-filled skies of Hovenweep National Monument along the Utah-Colorado border have new protections as the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) announced today it has designated Hovenweep as the world's seventeenth International Dark Sky Park. In designating the new Park at the Gold-tier sky quality level, IDA recognizes the notably dark skies over the Monument and efforts of the National Park Service (NPS) to protect them for future generations of visitors. It is the first IDA Dark Sky Park to span more than one U.S. state, and is the second IDA-accredited site in the state of Utah after Natural Bridges National Monument. Both Natural Bridges and Hovenweep are jointly managed under the same NPS administrative staff.

"We are happy to welcome Hovenweep into IDA's family of International Dark Sky places. It is the fifth such place in our program from the Colorado Plateau, highlighting the growing interest and importance of night sky protection throughout the region," said IDA Acting Executive Director Scott Kardel

Gordon Gower led the effort to obtain IDA recognition for the Monument, an undertaking that served as the capstone of the five years he spent at NPS prior to his recent retirement. He traces his interest in astronomy and dark skies to his school days when he randomly chose famed British amateur astronomer Sir Patrick Moore's Picture History of Astronomy from a library shelf for a school reading assignment. "I think Sir Patrick would be pretty happy with me and the outcome for the Monument," Gower said. "Hovenweep is an island of solitude and darkness much needed by the over-stimulated nerves of modern city dwellers."

While the Monument has very little outdoor lighting, receiving IDA recognition was contingent upon developing a formal plan to guide future park development and lighting installations. Superintendent Jim Dougan points out that the Monument's Management Plan now "recognizes dark skies as one of several integral resources" that makes Hovenweep unique. "We have adopted energy conservation and efficient lighting as cornerstones to our public messaging about stewardship of resources in general and the night sky in particular," Dougan explained.

Cliff Spencer, Superintendent of Mesa Verde National Park, applauded today's announcement.

"Unspoiled natural lightscapes have natural, cultural, and scenic importance and are managed by the National Park Service to preserve these values," Spencer said. "This commitment to preserve, promote, and interpret the dark-sky resources of Hovenweep National Monument will only increase as pristine skies become less available elsewhere."

A Centuries-Old Hideaway
Hovenweep International Dark Sky Park consists of 785 acres (318 hectares) of federal lands divided among six non-contiguous park units along the Utah-Colorado border in the 'Four Corners' region of the American Southwest. It is particularly remote among the archaeological sites of the Four Corners and is noted for its undeveloped, natural character. The Monument takes its name from a Paiute/Ute word that means "deserted valley" and was adopted by pioneer photographer William Henry Jackson after his 1874 visit. Ruins of six prehistoric villages in the Monument, built between A.D. 1200 and 1300, testify to the ingenuity of their builders who flourished in a harsh, desolate landscape.

Little has changed in the intervening centuries. Where the people of the Ancestral Puebloan culture once led hardscrabble lives in an unforgiving high-desert terrain, modern tourists to the Colorado Plateau now marvel at the art and architecture they left behind. They may also experience something quite close to the primordial nighttime darkness that existed everywhere before the advent of electricity and artificial light at night. Hovenweep's seclusion has largely preserved its dark night skies in a condition similar to that of its 13th century heyday.

Skywatchers Then and Now
Modern visitors to the Monument share their interest in the night sky with its ancient inhabitants. The Ancestral Puebloans were keen skywatchers, often deliberately orienting their buildings with points on the local horizon where the Sun rose or set on the longest and shortest days of the year. Evidence suggests that some Hovenweep structures, including its iconic "Castle", were built with small openings in exterior walls, directing beams of the rising or setting sun such that they fell on particular construction features only on specific, important dates. Researchers believe these orientations turned the structures into calendar devices used to predict dates of planting and harvest, crucial information for a community of subsistence farmers.

Recognizing that visitors to Hovenweep go far off the beaten path in traveling to its remote location, the Monument leadership has worked to provide a variety of activities that satisfy the longing for seclusion both day and night. To afford visitors a place to see the primeval darkness above Hovenweep at their convenience, the Monument is open 24 hours a day throughout the year. Despite limited resources, the Monument administration has acquired an 11" Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope and a pair of 10.5x70 binoculars for dark sky programs, which are held several times a year during the warmer months. Experienced amateur astronomer volunteers put on the programs.

It is hoped that today's IDA recognition of Hovenweep will help further the conservation of dark night skies on the lands of the neighboring Navajo and Ute Mountain Nations, as well as at nearby Canyon of the Ancients National Monument.

High-Resolution Photos
Caption: The summer Milky Way is seen over Hovenweep Castle at the Square Tower unit, Hovenweep National Monument. (Credit: Wally Pacholka / AstroPics.com) http://bit.ly/1w3CTDU

Caption: The Milky Way rises over Ancestral Puebloan masonry ruins of the Square Tower Group at Hovenweep National Monument. (Credit: Jacob W. Frank / National Park Service) http://bit.ly/1w3CwZT

About the IDA Dark Sky Places Program
IDA established the International Dark Sky Places conservation program in 2001 to recognize excellent stewardship of the night sky. Designations are based on stringent outdoor lighting standards and innovative community outreach. Since the program began, seven Communities, 17 Parks and eight Reserves have received International Dark Sky designations. For more information about the International Dark Sky Places Program, visit http://darksky.org/night-sky-conservation/dark-sky-places.

About IDA
The International Dark Sky Association, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Tucson, Arizona, advocates for the protection of the nighttime environment and dark night skies by educating policymakers and the public about night sky conservation and promoting environmentally responsible outdoor lighting. More information about IDA and its mission may be found at http://www.darksky.org.

Media Inquiries
International Dark-Sky Association
Dr. John Barentine (Dark Sky Places Program Manager) john@darksky.org; +1 520-293-3198

National Park Service / Hovenweep National Monument
Mr. James Dougan (Superintendent) jim_dougan@nps.gov; +1 435-692-1234 ext. 15

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

The International Dark-Sky Association commends Beverly Shores for its protection of the nighttime environment.

Tucson, AZ -- (SBWIRE) -- 06/24/2014 -- Nights along the south shore of Lake Michigan are a little darker thanks to dedicated residents of one northwest Indiana community. In recognition of their efforts to protect the nighttime environment along the Indiana Dunes, the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) today announced it has named the Town of Beverly Shores, Indiana, as the world's seventh International Dark Sky Community.

"Beverly Shores is proof that small towns can do big things," said IDA Acting Executive Director Scott Kardel. "Their commitment to night sky preservation places them in an elite, but growing group of communities world-wide."

Beverly Shores is situated on 5.83 square miles (15.1 square km) of land along the shoreline of Lake Michigan east of the greater Chicago area. Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, a park of the National Park Service, surrounds Beverly Shores to its east, west and south, and Lake Michigan is to its north, which is why locals often refer to the town as "The Island"."

Residents have long been concerned about the effects of excess artificial light at night in Beverly Shores; the Town Council first adopted regulations on outdoor lighting in 1983. To help achieve accreditation from IDA, the Council significantly expanded the provisions of the Town's lighting ordinance. The Association of Beverly Shores Residents (ABSR), under the leadership of Board and Environment Committee members Rosemary and Alan Bell, undertook an initiative to educate property owners about the importance of dark skies, providing examples of methods for retrofitting existing, poor-quality light fixtures.

ABSR President William S. Gilmer credits this collaborative community spirit for today's award. "The concerted efforts of our town government, community association, businesses and individual residents to reduce all sources of light pollution in our town have been an exemplary model of a community working together toward a primary goal," Gilmer said.

The Birth and Rebirth of Beverly Shores
Beverly Shores began life as a planned resort community when the Frederick H. Bartlett Company, at the time one of Chicago's largest real estate developers, bought 3,600 acres (1,500 ha) in 1927, and plotted thousands of home sites. The Great Depression killed the project and most of the planned homes were never built. Robert Bartlett, Frederick Bartlett's brother, purchased the land in 1933 and named the development after his daughter Beverly.

Bartlett further developed its infrastructure with roads, a school, a golf course and a hotel. In the postwar era, the rapid development of Chicago exurbs in the direction of the Town led to environmental degradation, and by the 1950s environmental groups began to push for conservation of the area's beaches and adjoining wetlands. The National Lakeshore was established in 1966 and now hosts some of the most ecologically diverse lands in the region.

With growth came outdoor lighting installations previously unknown in this largely wilderness area. However, towns like Beverly Shores principally attracted residents seeking a respite from the bustling city life of Chicago who preferred living in a more natural setting.

A Unique Dunes Ecosystem
Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore protects part of the Great Marsh, the vast wetland that once paralleled the Indiana shoreline of Lake Michigan from Gary to Michigan City. The National Lakeshore hosts some of the greatest biodiversity in the Midwest among its beaches, sand dunes, black oak forests and savannas, wetlands, open prairies and shrub swamps. At the turn of the 20th Century, botanist Henry Chandler Cowles carried out landmark studies of plant succession that led to the Dunes becoming known as "the birthplace of ecology."

Beverly Shores residents have long treasured The Island's location in the wild confines of the Dunes. In recent years, they have embraced dark-skies as an important part of the local environment drawing residents and tourists alike. Beverly Shores residents have demonstrated their commitment to controlling the growth of outdoor lighting in their town through a series of retrofits and replacements of residential and commercial light fixtures. After the Town Council concluded that municipal funding was unavailable to replace or retrofit all light-polluting, publicly owned street lighting, the project was undertaken when ABSR raised $8,000 toward its total cost of $9,350 from local residents. 13 of the original 61 streetlights in Beverly Shores were retired, while the remainder was replaced with dark-sky-friendly high-pressure sodium fixtures.

Responsible outdoor lighting in Beverly Shores helps protect many species living in the Dunes. "The National Park Service applauds the progressive steps that the Town is taking to mitigate the effects of light pollution in the area and pledges its support to assist in making this a successful venture," said
Garry M. Traynham, Acting Superintendent of Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore.

Available Image
Photo Caption: Members of the ABSR Board and Environment Committee who contributed efforts toward the International Dark Sky Community designation in front of the historic Beverly Shores train depot. Front row, left to right: Donna Norkus, Toots Foy, Margery al-Chalabi, Rosemary Bell, Alan Bell. Back row, left to right: Bill Foy, Bill Gilmer, Ed Kleese, Larry Steffel. (Credit: Bill Taylor)
Photo Access: http://bit.ly/1r9Ll1F

About the IDA Dark Sky Places Program
IDA established the International Dark Sky Places conservation program in 2001 to recognize excellent stewardship of the night sky. Designations are based on stringent outdoor lighting standards and innovative community outreach. Since the program began, seven Communities, 16 Parks and eight Reserves have received International Dark Sky designations. For more information about the International Dark Sky Places Program, visit http://darksky.org/night-sky-conservation/dark-sky-places.

About IDA
The International Dark Sky Association, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Tucson, Arizona, advocates for the protection of the nighttime environment and dark night skies by educating policymakers and the public about night sky conservation and promoting environmentally responsible outdoor lighting.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

The International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) joins AstronomyOutreach network to raise public awareness about the importance of dark skies.

Big Bear Lake, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/20/2014 -- The International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) joins AstronomyOutreach network to raise public awareness about the importance of dark skies for the environment and science of the Southern California mountain region.

The StarLight Festival, a free educational event geared towards children, young adults and families, will be held May 24-25, in the Village of Big Bear Lake at the Northwoods Resort & Conference Center. This unique celebration includes music and the arts and aims to create a better understanding of science and astronomy through interactive outreach and hands on experiences.

IDA Acting Executive Director Scott Kardel will be bringing the vision and mission of the International Dark-Sky Association to the StarLight Festival's STEM Zone where attendees will to learn how protect our dark sky heritage.

The gradual loss of our night sky is negatively impacting the planet's natural environment. The beautiful starry nights of decades past are no longer visible from many places on Earth. Human-produced light pollution not only impacts astronomers, it disrupts ecosystems and human health, wasting energy and money.

For a quarter century, the IDA has worked with communities, companies and governments to protect the nighttime environment through responsible outdoor lighting.

More Festival Highlights
The StarLight Festival has partnered with the RTMC Astronomy Expo to celebrate RTMC's 46th Annual Star Party in Big Bear at Camp Oakes. Visit the RTMC booth at the StarLight Festival for complimentary day passes to the RTMC Astronomy Expo. Quantities are limited.

The Big Bear Solar Observatory Team will have an interpretive center at the festival and exclusive tours of the observatory. Visitors will meet JPL/NASA scientists and astronauts and representatives of leading public outreach organizations.

For more information about the Starlight Festival visit www.StarLightFestival.com.

About the AstronomyOutreach Network
Founded in 2000, the AstronomyOutreach network is a 501(c)3 that promotes and recognizes individuals and organizations involved in astronomy outreach for the general public. It is an inclusive organization that welcomes a wide audience devoted to educational and public outreach, whether amateur or professional, commercial or non-profit. More information about Aon can be found at www.AstronomyOutreach.net.

About IDA
The International Dark Sky Association, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Tucson, Arizona, advocates for the protection of the nighttime environment by educating policymakers and the public about night sky conservation and promoting environmentally responsible outdoor lighting. More information about IDA and its mission may be found at www.darksky.org.

Contact Information
Scott Roberts, IDA board member, AstronomyOutreach network founder, and conference organizer
Email: swr@astronomyoutreach.com
Phone: +1 949-637-9075

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Join the IDA for seven days of celebration, learning and action!

Tucson, AZ -- (SBWIRE) -- 04/18/2014 -- Created in 2003 by high-school student Jennifer Barlow, International Dark Sky Week has grown to become a worldwide event and a key component of Global Astronomy Month. Each year it is held in April around Earth Day and Astronomy Day. This year celebrations begin Sunday, April 20, and run through Saturday, April 26.

In explaining why she started the week, Barlow said, "I want people to be able to see the wonder of the night sky without the effects of light pollution. The universe is our view into our past and our vision into the future. … I want to help preserve its wonder."

International Dark Sky Week draws attention to the problems associated with light pollution and promotes simple solutions available to mitigate it.

Why Does Light Pollution Matter?

The nighttime environment is a crucial natural resource for all life on Earth, but the glow of uncontrolled outdoor lighting has hidden the stars, radically changing the nighttime environment.

Before the advent of electric light in the 20th century, humans experienced a night sky brimming with stars that inspired science, religion, philosophy, art and literature including some of Shakespeare's most famous sonnets.

The common heritage of a natural night sky is rapidly becoming unknown to the newest generations. In fact, millions of children across the globe will never see the Milky Way from their own homes.

Scientists are only just beginning to understand the negative repercussions of losing this natural resource. A growing body of research suggests that the loss of the natural nighttime environment is causing serious harm to human health and the environment.

For nocturnal animals in particular, the introduction of artificial light at night could very well be the most devastating change humans have made to their environment. Light pollution also has deleterious effects on other organisms such as migrating birds, sea turtle hatchlings, and insects.

Humans are not immune to the negative effects of light in their nighttime spaces. Excessive exposure to artificial light at night, particularly blue light, has been linked to increased risks for obesity, depression, sleep disorders, diabetes and breast cancer.

Isn't Nighttime Lighting Important for Safety & Security?

There is no clear scientific evidence that increased outdoor lighting deters crime. It may make people feel safer but it does not make them safer. The truth is bad outdoor lighting can decrease safety by making victims and property easier to see.

Glare from overly bright, unshielded lighting creates shadows in which criminals can hide. It also shines directly into the eyes, constricting our pupils. This diminishes the ability of the human eye to adapt to low-light conditions and leads to poorer nighttime vision, dangerous to motorists and pedestrians alike.

Another serious side effect of light pollution is wasted energy. Wasted energy costs money, contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change, and compromises energy security.

What Can Be Done?

The good news is that light pollution is reversible and its solutions are immediate, simple and cost-effective. Here are a few simple things that concerned citizens can do to confront the problem and take back the night:

- Check home lighting. Shield outdoor lighting, or at least angle it downward, to minimize "light trespass" beyond your property lines. Use light only when and where needed. Motion detectors and timers can help. Use only the amount of illumination required for the task at hand.
- Attend or throw a star party. Many astronomy clubs and International Dark Sky Places are celebrating the week by holding public events under the stars.
- Talk to neighbors. Explain that poorly shielded fixtures waste energy, produce glare and reduce visibility. Give them an IDA brochure from the IDA website.
- Become a Citizen Scientist with GLOBE at Night and document light pollution in your neighborhood and share the results. Doing so, contributes to a global database of light pollution measurements.
- Photograph the sky and enter the 2014 International Earth and Sky Photo Contest.
- Download, Watch, and Share "Losing the Dark," a public service announcement about light pollution. It can be downloaded for free and is available in 13 languages.
- Explore Online. Join IDA on Facebook and Twitter (hashtag #IDSW2014), and check out the IDA website, which features a different theme for each day of the week. Visit IDA daily and learn something new.

International Dark Sky Week Daily Themes
- Day 1 (Sunday, 4/20) – Why Light Pollution Matters. Get a basic overview of light pollution including what it is and how it happens.
- Day 2 (Monday, 4/21) – Ill Health. Learn how light at night can be dangerous to human health.
- Day 3 (Tuesday, 4/22) – Environmental Harms. See how light pollution puts animals and entire ecosystems at risk.
- Day 4 (Wednesday, 4/23) – Energy Waste. Find out how light pollution squanders energy and money and contributes to climate change.
- Day 5 (Thursday, 4/24) – Safety & Crime. Learn why more and brighter lights can actually make people less safe.
- Day 6 (Friday, 4/25) – Stars are Our Heritage. Discover why the night sky is important for humanity.
- Day 7 (Saturday, 4/26) – Take Action! Find out ways to simply and quickly make a difference.

About IDA
The International Dark Sky Association is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Tucson, Arizona. For 25 years, it has advocated for the protection of the nighttime environment and dark night skies by educating policymakers and the public about night sky conservation and promoting environmentally responsible outdoor lighting. More information about IDA and its mission may be found at http://www.darksky.org.

Media Inquiries
Cheryl Ann Bishop, IDA Communications and Public Affairs Director
520.293.3198 / cherylann@darksky.org

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

IDA has designated Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument as part of its International Dark Sky Places Program. The new International Dark Sky Place is also known as “Parashant International Night Sky Province.”

Tucson, AZ -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/21/2014 -- The remote, wild character of rural northwest Arizona has long drawn dedicated adventurers who value protection of the area's abundant natural resources. Lately, dark night skies have earned a place among these precious assets worthy of preservation. In recognition of exceptional efforts to this end, the International Dark Sky Association announced today that it has designated Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument as part of its International Dark Sky Places Program. The new International Dark Sky Place is also known as "Parashant International Night Sky Province." A public event to celebrate the designation will be held April 26 at Dixie State University in St. George, Utah.

"Parashant has outstanding Gold-tier night skies—some of the best in the southwest. Their new designation marks them as an environmental leader in moving to preserve the Monument's starry skies for generations to come," said IDA Executive Director Bob Parks.

Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument, established in 2000, consists of 1.05 million acres (42,000 ha) of land on the "Arizona Strip," the portion of Arizona lying north of the Colorado River. The Monument is bounded to the south by the Grand Canyon and on the west by the Arizona-Nevada border. At the junction of the Colorado Plateau, Mojave Desert and Great Basin, it is among the most isolated of the federally managed land units in the contiguous 48 states.

Parashant represents an area of over a million acres with no paved roads, limited structures, four Wilderness areas and pristine night skies. "Solitude and wilderness have always been associated with Parashant and these characteristics exemplify our night skies," said Eathan McIntyre, Physical Science Specialist at Parashant and leader of the effort to secure an IDA designation

First Such Award for the US Bureau Of Land Management
The National Park Service and the U.S. Bureau of Land Management manage the administration of Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument jointly. While the NPS counts four other of its properties among IDA International Dark Sky Parks, the IDA recognition of Parashant is a first for lands within the BLM portfolio.

NPS Director Jonathan Jarvis characterized today's award as the result of a "beautiful partnership" with BLM. He hopes that IDA's recognition of Parashant will attract other BLM sites on the Colorado Plateau to join in educating communities and protecting night skies. "The night sky is something you can restore. It's not gone, it's still there and all we have to do is pay attention to our lighting," Jarvis said.

A Look At The Past, A Vision Of The Future
The human presence in Parashant extends back as far as the Paleoindians who arrived in the Arizona Strip near the end of the last Ice Age nearly 13,000 years ago. Remnants of formerly extensive Puebloan (Anasazi) and Southern Paiute cultures are found on the Monument. Mining activities, timber cutting, and settlement by farmers and ranchers began by the 1870s and continued into the early twentieth century. Parashant's extreme remoteness discouraged all but the hardiest of settlers, which helped protect its skies from brightening after the advent of electric lighting.

Members of the Pauite tribes living near Parashant value the unspoiled quality of the Monument lands, including its remarkably dark night skies. In voicing his support for the effort leading to today's award, Manuel M. Savala, chairperson of the Kaibab Paiute Tribe, explained why dark skies are significant to his constituents. "Any effort that can help conserve our dark night skies and to protect a place where one can clearly look toward the stars and planets will benefit our younger generations, our visitors, and the tribal community at large."

Dark skies advocates hope to capitalize on today's announcement and carry the momentum forward toward the protection of additional lands in the region. Interagency cooperation is seen as key to the success of this effort.

"Parashant International Night Sky Province embodies the collaboration between multiple agencies and landowners that will lead to the continued success of the Colorado Plateau Dark Sky Cooperative," said Nathan Ament, Coordinator of the Colorado Plateau Dark Sky Cooperative, an NPS-sponsored collaboration dedicated to the preservation of dark night skies on federal lands in the Four Corners area. "It represents NPS and BLM's dedication to leading the way in protecting natural darkness as a precious resource on the Colorado Plateau," Ament explained.

Parashant joins other IDA Dark Sky Places already designated on the Colorado Plateau, including Flagstaff, AZ; Natural Bridges National Monument, UT; and Chaco Canyon National Historical Park, NM. Efforts are now underway at nearby Grand Canyon National Park to seek a similar IDA designation. Officials at Parashant and the Grand Canyon envision a future in which community partnerships, public education, and voluntary efforts to place sensible controls on outdoor lighting lead to more dark skies conservation along the nearly 300-mile-long Colorado River corridor in northern Arizona.

About the IDA Dark Sky Places Program
IDA established the International Dark Sky Places conservation program in 2001 to recognize excellent stewardship of the night sky. Designations are based on stringent outdoor lighting standards and innovative community outreach. Since the program began, six communities, 16 parks and eight reserves have received International Dark Sky Place designations. For more information about the International Dark Sky Places Program, visit http://darksky.org/night-sky-conservation/dark-sky-places.

About IDA
The International Dark Sky Association, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Tucson, Arizona, advocates for the protection of the nighttime environment and dark night skies by educating policymakers and the public about night sky conservation and promoting environmentally responsible outdoor lighting. More information about IDA and its mission may be found at http://www.darksky.org.

Media Inquiries:
International Dark-Sky Association
- Dr. John Barentine (Dark Sky Places Program Manager) john@darksky.org;
+1 520 293 3198

National Park Service
- Mr. Scott Sticha (Chief of Interpretation and Partnerships, Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument) scott_sticha@nps.gov; +1 435 688 3377

Bureau of Land Management
- Ms. Rachel Tueller (Public Affairs Specialist) rtueller@blm.gov; +1 435 688 3303

Images
- A composite of the last-quarter Moon set against a starry sky above Parashant. http://bit.ly/1bSKob2
- The "Big Dipper" rising over Parashant. http://bit.ly/1bSKuiM (Credit for both images: Nicholas Glover)
- Graphic/Poster by Tyler Nordgren: http://bit.ly/1imeWBx (Credit: ©Tyler Nordgren, http://www.tylernordgren.com/)

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

The International Dark-Sky Association recognizes the Blue Ridge Observatory and Star Park and is pleased to acknowledge the work of Mayland Community College (MCC) for protecting the dark sky.

Tucson, AZ -- (SBWIRE) -- 02/24/2014 -- The Appalachian Mountains of have stood as silent witnesses to the uninterrupted rain of starlight for nearly a half-billion years, but artificial light now threatens this nightly show. In honor of notable local efforts to preserve the natural nighttime landscape of North Carolina, the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) announced today it has designated the first International Dark Sky Park in the southeastern United States.

In recognizing the Blue Ridge Observatory and Star Park, IDA is pleased to acknowledge the work of Mayland Community College (MCC) in preserving a threatened dark-sky location while advancing its educational mission and vision of bringing the experience of primeval night to locals and visitors alike.

"While it is one of the smaller parks in our program, we expect Blue Ridge Observatory and Star Park to make a big splash as a Silver-tier International Dark-Sky Park," said IDA Executive Director Bob Parks.

The Blue Ridge Observatory and Star Park is situated six miles west of Spruce Pine, North Carolina, in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The six-acre (2.4-hectare) site, surrounded by rugged mountain terrain and the Pisgah National Forest, is owned by Yancey County (NC) and managed by MCC. It is co-located with the EnergyXchange, a project in which methane waste gas emitted by an old landfill heats horticultural greenhouses and artists' studios.

Jon Wilmesherr, MCC Director of Learning Resources Center and Distance Education who led the effort to secure the IDA award, is optimistic that the Star Park will serve as a model for land management by colleges and universities. "I hope other educational institutions will consider the benefits of sponsoring an IDA star park, where the demonstration of lighting conservation can lead visitors to a better understanding of the urgent need for the preservation of the natural night sky," Wilmesherr said.

A Park of Many Firsts
While each dark sky site recognized by IDA offers its own particular set of features, Blue Ridge Observatory and Star Park has several characteristics that are unique among the 29 worldwide International Dark Sky Places. It is the first:
- located in the southeastern United States;
- operating under an institution of higher learning; and
- having outdoor lighting consisting entirely of fully-shielded, low-color-temperature light emitting diode (LED) fixtures upon receiving IDA recognition.

Given administrative oversight by a single organization and the few artificial lights already at the EnergyXchange, converting all of the site's fixtures to dark-sky-friendly LED was straightforward and cost effective. MCC hopes the Star Park will be a regional leader in the implementation of such novel, energy-efficient lighting technologies at public facilities.

The Blue Ridge Astronomy Group (BRAG), a local amateur astronomy society, was instrumental in supporting MCC's application to the Dark Sky Places Program. According to Bob Hampton, BRAG President, "Our Star Park will begin life as an isolated oasis of darkness mostly surrounded by a desert of light pollution, but our efforts will help that oasis to grow and expand – to push back against the sky glow."

"We have an incredible opportunity to be an example to others who might go home and take another look at the lighting and light pollution where they live, and realize that it doesn't need to be that way," Hampton said.

New Life for an Old Site
The EnergyXchange is among the pioneers of waste gas utilization on small, rural landfills, and is one of the nation's model energy recovery projects. It captures an amount of carbon in the form of methane gas equivalent to planting 14,000 acres (5,666 hectares) of trees or taking 21,000 cars off North Carolina roads each year according to Environmental Protection Agency estimates. Its presence has transformed the disused landfill, built atop a former mica mine, into a local center of activity for artists and agriculturalists alike. The latest rebirth of the site focuses on a different natural resource: dark night skies.

Identifying the Star Park for potential IDA recognition began soon after MCC assumed management of the site in 2013. MCC, ranked among the top community colleges in the United States, plans to situate an observatory on the property featuring a state-of-the-art 34-inch (0.87-meter) telescope dedicated to educational and public outreach activities. The Samuel L. Phillips Family Foundation, a local nonprofit organization, provided funding for fabrication of the telescope's main mirror.

Dr. John Boyd, President of MCC, anticipates significant benefits to the community from locating the telescope under the dark skies at Blue Ridge Star Park. "This entirely public observatory will offer evening and late night viewing through the largest public telescope in the southeast," Boyd said. "Our observing programs will provide an interesting, affordable, and educational family outing for the people of western North Carolina and the region."

MCC will partner with BRAG to offer dedicated on-site programming for quarterly dark sky events, as well as to implement a long-term plan to monitor the quality of the night sky over the Star Park for years to come.

About the IDA Dark Sky Places Program
IDA established the International Dark Sky Places conservation program in 2001 to recognize excellent stewardship of the night sky. Designations are based on stringent outdoor lighting standards and innovative community outreach. Since the program began, six Communities, 15 parks and eight reserves have received International Dark Sky designations. For more information about the International Dark Sky Places Program, visit http://darksky.org/night-sky-conservation/dark-sky-places.

About IDA
The International Dark Sky Association, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Tucson, Arizona, advocates for the protection of the nighttime environment and dark night skies by educating policymakers and the public on the subject of night sky conservation and by promoting environmentally responsible outdoor lighting. More information about IDA and its mission may be found at http://www.darksky.org.

Media Inquiries:
International Dark-Sky Association
- Dr. John Barentine (Dark Sky Places Program Manager) john@darksky.org; +1 520 293 3198

Mayland Community College
- Mr. Jon Wilmesherr (Director of Learning Resources Center and Distance Education) jwilmesherr@mayland.edu; +1 828 766 1360

Images
- A Quonset hut used as an artist studio at the EnergyXchange http://bit.ly/1h6Z19x
- The summer Milky Way above Blue Ridge Observatory and Star Park http://bit.ly/1h6ZiJz
(Both images, credit: Todd Bush)

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

The International Dark Sky Association (IDA) gives provisional certification to German park with commitment to protecting dark skies

Tucson, AZ -- (SBWIRE) -- 02/17/2014 -- The International Dark Sky Association (IDA) announced today that it has provisionally named Eifel National Park as the first International Dark Sky Park in Germany. The western German park now counts dark-sky status as a tourist draw alongside its untamed wilderness and storied history.

"We welcome Eifel National Park into the elite roll of International Dark Sky Parks and commend their exceptional public outreach efforts in the surrounding areas," said IDA Executive Director Bob Parks. "The creation of Germany's first International Dark Sky Park, coming so soon after the announcement of its first Dark Sky Reserve, shows a growing interest in night sky conservation that Germany and all of Europe can be proud of."

Eifel is the first and only German National Park in the Federal State of North Rhine-Westphalia. It is also one of the youngest in the German National Park system, created in 2004. Eifel covers 110 square kilometers (42 square miles) of territory in west-central Germany near and along the Belgian border.

Today's announcement is the result of efforts by park leadership and neighboring communities to enact good outdoor lighting policy and promote stewardship of the dark night skies through continued education and public outreach efforts. Its "provisional" status means that full certification within the International Dark Sky Places Program is contingent upon achieving better than 90 percent participation among communities in the National Park by 2017.

Eifel National Park Superintendent Henning Walter believes the IDA designation will have a significant impact well beyond its borders. "It will let many people encounter the value of a starry night sky and a natural nightscape with its animals," Walter explained. "I hope the IDA award will further motivate neighboring communities to reduce light pollution."

Bright Lights, Big Cities, Dark Skies
Eifel National Park is situated in one of the most densely populated parts of Western Europe; nearly 20 million people live within two hours of Eifel by car or train. Despite the encroachment of modern urban development, the park is a dark sky oasis surrounded by a sea of light. The Park's location near major population centers such as Aachen, Bonn, and Cologne presents a special challenge in preserving this fragile natural resource.

The effort to save Eifel's dark skies was led by Harald Bardenhagen, CEO of Astronomie-Werkstatt "Sterne ohne Grenzen," an astronomy education institution. Dubbed the "Star-Warrior of Cologne" by local media, Bardenhagen took on the monumental task of convincing dozens of communities in and around the park that restrictions on outdoor lighting would protect the National Park without threatening their safety and security.

"The implementation of a dark-sky protection area in densely-populated parts of Europe is challenging," Bardenhagen said. "For this task one does not only need spirit and enthusiasm to promote dark skies and the value of a nightscape without light pollution. One also needs to demonstrate the advantages of illumination alternatives to address the broad range of problems caused by artificial light at night such as energy waste, greenhouse gas emission, and potential harm to human health and biodiversity."

A New Life From An Old Past
Eifel National Park has retained its dark night skies because much of its territory was literally off-limits until a decade ago. In the period following the Second World War, parts of what is now the National Park were designated the Vogelsang Military Training Area and used by the Belgian armed forces for training activities. Wollseifen, the only settlement within the Vogelsang Military Training Area, was evacuated and destroyed. Closed to the public, the land gradually returned in parts to its former natural condition over the six decades until the National Park was established when military activities in the area ceased.

Previously, the Eifel region was chosen for the site of Ordensburg Vogelsang, an estate developed for the education of selected Nazi party officials. The 100-hectare (250 acre) complex was built in 1934-36. In 1950, the Belgian Armed Forces took over the site, known as "Camp Vogelsang" until 2005. It is now operated as the "vogelsang ip International Place in Eifel National Park" (vogelsang ip).

200,000 visitors now enjoy leisure and educational activities there each year; according to vogelsang ip CEO Albert Moritz, options include nighttime stargazing, nocturnal bat observing, and ranger-led night walks. "We have had extraordinarily positive experiences with these activities. It has encouraged us to prevent light pollution and include the night sky as a tool in our curriculum of learning for everyone," Moritz said.

Local officials hope the IDA designation will bring new opportunities for tourism and economic development to the region, as well as helping to improve the overall quality of life. "The preservation of a natural night is very important for our city," explained Bert Zuell, mayor of Heimbach, a gateway city to the National Park. "It will enhance the quality of living for our citizens and furthermore will offer a unique touristic value for our guests – the experience of a natural nightscape."

Future plans for the area include an eventual expansion of protected territory into the Hohes Venn region across the border in Belgium to create an International Dark Sky Reserve spanning both nations.

Photos
- The Milky Way over Eifel National Park: http://bit.ly/1btscnX
- Star trails above the church at Wollseifen, Eifel National Park: http://bit.ly/1btshIw
(Both photos, credit: ©Harald Bardenhagen)

Video
Atmosphaerische Erscheinung am Nachthimmel ueber dem Nationalpark Eifel ("Atmospheric phenomena in the night sky over the Eifel National Park Eifel"),
by Harald Bardenhagen (no narration; titles in German) http://youtube/cQkGrc1-NbU

About the IDA Dark Sky Places Program
IDA established the International Dark Sky Places conservation program in 2001 to recognize excellent stewardship of the night sky. Designations are based on stringent outdoor lighting standards and innovative community outreach. Since the program began, six communities, fourteen parks and eight reserves have received International Dark Sky designations. For more information about the International Dark Sky Places Program, visit http://darksky.org/night-sky-conservation/dark-sky-places.

About IDA
The International Dark Sky Association, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Tucson, Arizona, advocates for the protection of the nighttime environment and dark night skies by educating policymakers and the public on the subject of night sky conservation and by promoting environmentally responsible outdoor lighting. More information about IDA and its mission may be found at http://www.darksky.org.

Media Inquiries

International Dark-Sky Association
- Dr. John Barentine (Dark Sky Places Program Manager), john@darksky.org,+1 520 293 3198

Eifel National Park
- Mr. Michael Lammertz (Head of Department of Communication and Nature Experience), lammertz@nationalpark-eifel.de, +49 2444 9510 42

Astronomie-Werkstatt "Sterne ohne Grenzen"
- Mr. Harald Bardenhagen (Astronomer and Dark Sky Consultant),
haraldba@sterne-ohne-grenzen.de, +49 221 2829882

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Westhavelland Nature Park, the world’s newest International Dark Sky Reserve, will be known as “Sternenpark Westhavelland” in Germany

Tucson, AZ -- (SBWIRE) -- 02/12/2014 -- Millions of Berliners who seek a respite from bright city lights now have an option close to home. The International Dark Sky Association (IDA) announced today it has named Westhavelland Nature Park the world's newest International Dark Sky Reserve. In Germany, the Reserve will be known as "Sternenpark Westhavelland."

"IDA applauds the work that has been done to protect the night skies over Westhavelland, which now has the darkest skies in all of Germany," said IDA Executive Director Bob Parks.

Dr. Andreas Haenel, director of the planetarium at the Museum Am Schoelerberg in nearby Osnabrueck, led the effort to secure the IDA designation. "I hope that this designation will be a motivation for the communities in the Nature Park and many more in the country to install sustainable, environmentally friendly lighting in the future to protect the night and the starry sky," Haenel said.

Westhavelland Nature Park is the largest protected area in the German Federal State of Brandenburg and comprises the largest contiguous wetland of any individual European country. The Nature Park is situated only 45 miles (70 km) west of Berlin, the most populous city in Germany, yet its sparse population and protected status put the experience of a dark night sky within easy reach of nearly six million people in the Berlin-Brandenburg Metropolitan Region. The new Dark Sky Reserve consists of a mix of 290 square miles (750 square kilometers) of public and private land within the Nature Park.

Finding Dark Skies Near Big City Lights
Westhavelland Nature Park's proximity to Berlin makes it a popular destination for tourists and Berliners alike to enjoy the Park's natural resources. However, the price of that convenience is outdoor lighting that both enables nighttime activities and brightens the night sky with light pollution.

Westhavelland is closer to a major population center than any other of IDA's International Dark Sky Reserves, making its achievement of Reserve status all the more significant. According to Dr. Haenel, the designation of the Nature Park as an International Dark Sky Reserve "shows that even a densely populated country like Germany still offers nightscapes that are comparable to much more remote areas."

Efforts leading to today's announcement began a full five years ago and required securing cooperation from dozens of municipalities within the Nature Park. Each participating community agreed to bring its lighting into compliance with a comprehensive Lightscape Management Plan drawn from best practices promoted by IDA. Now more than 90 percent of the Nature Park residents live in areas with good outdoor lighting policies.

"The park administration is working closely with the communities on this ongoing process to help raise public awareness of the necessity of the dark night environment and recommend how to reduce light pollution," Haenel said.

The idea of a "Dunkel Deutschland" ("dark Germany") has an ironic double meaning in the former German Democratic Republic. Years of underdevelopment in the Communist era convinced some residents that modern, bright outdoor lighting is an indication of progress and modernity. This thinking poses a problem for advocates of dark night skies.

"Even though the communities in the Nature Park struggle with implementation challenges, they join us in the vision that dark nights are precious and worthy of protection," said Park Superintendent Kordula Isermann. "That is especially significant because it takes guts to stand up for a dark night sky in Eastern Germany."

An Ongoing Commitment
Westhavelland has developed an extensive education, public outreach, and communications program including the annual WestHavellaender AstroTreffstar party, dark-skies interpretive programming, the 2013 European Day of Parks event, the "Kunst und Kultur" ("Art and Culture") outreach program, and partnering with private enterprise to develop astrotourism. In addition, the Nature Park received the generous gift of a Celestron C8 telescope from the late Arnold Zenkert, longtime director of the Potsdam planetarium. The telescope, dedicated to public viewing of the night sky, will be formally presented to the Nature Park at a ceremony on Wednesday, 12 February.

Today's award is due in part to the individual commitment of many individuals, including Kordula Isermann and Claudia Hesse of Westhavelland Nature Park; Jens Aasmann and A. Thielicke, administrators of the Westhavelland communities of Rhinow and Nennhausen, respectively; Rene Riep, CEO of Naturschutzbund Deutschland Westhavelland; Jordis and Ingolf Hammer of Kreativ-Oase, Guelpe; and Harald Bardenhagen with Astronomie-Werkstatt in Cologne.

High-Resolution Image
The Milky Way and winter constellations over Westhavelland Nature Park. (Credit: Andreas Haenel): http://bit.ly/1fU372B

About the IDA Dark Sky Places Program
IDA established the International Dark Sky Places conservation program in 2001 to recognize excellent stewardship of the night sky. Designations are based on stringent outdoor lighting standards and innovative community outreach. Since the programbegan, five communities, thirteen parks and five reserves have received International Dark Sky designations. For more information about the International Dark Sky Places Program, visit http://darksky.org/night-sky-conservation/dark-sky-places.

About IDA
The International Dark Sky Association, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Tucson, Arizona, advocates for the protection of the nighttime environment and dark night skies by educating policymakers and the public on the subject of night sky conservation and by promoting environmentally responsible outdoor lighting. More information about IDA and its mission may be found at http://www.darksky.org.

Media Inquiries
- International Dark-Sky Association: Dr. John Barentine (International Dark Sky Places Program Manager) john@darksky.org +1 520 293 3198 x406

- Westhavelland Nature Park: Dr. Andreas Haenel (Museum Am Schoelerberg) ahaenel@uos.de; +49 0541 5600326

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

The International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) announced today it has designated the first International Dark Sky Community in Texas -- Dripping Springs International Dark Sky Community

Tucson, AZ -- (SBWIRE) -- 02/11/2014 -- The stars at night remain big and bright deep in the heart of the Texas – thanks to the hard work and dedication of Texas Hill Country residents. The International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) announced today it has designated the first International Dark Sky Community in Texas. In naming the Dripping Springs International Dark Sky Community, IDA is pleased to recognize local efforts to protect and preserve the character of the nighttime sky over central Texas.

"Dripping Springs joins a select club as the world's sixth Dark Sky Community," said IDA Executive Director Bob Parks. "They've embraced smart lighting through effective controls that improve visibility, while preserving the night sky."

Dripping Springs bills itself as the "Gateway To The Hill Country" and is often the first stop in Texas for visitors coming from the east. "When people enter the Dripping Springs area at night, many of them notice something is different – the skies over the city are not spoiled by light pollution," explained Todd Purcell, Mayor of Dripping Springs. "This is evidence that the city and the people who live and in near the city value the natural environment, including the beauty of the Hill Country and high quality of the night sky."

Balancing Economic Growth And Environmental Protection
A formerly sleepy ranching town settled before the Civil War, the city experienced massive growth in the last decade, seeing its population increase by some 72 percent between 2000 and 2010. The growth has been fueled by the economies of the nearby urban centers of Austin and San Antonio. Alarmed that future development could bring light pollution, concerned residents organized to protect the area's famously dark night skies. Early on, the City Council became involved by adopting an Outdoor Lighting Ordinance (OLO) in 2000. The OLO was conceived by a group of local citizens led by the late John Gregory with the assistance of City Attorney Alan Bojorquez. Current and former City Councilmen and Planning and Zoning Commissioners then embraced and enhanced the provisions of the OLO. Since then, the city government has been a committed partner in protecting local dark skies.

"We are all fortunate that the City of Dripping Springs has over a period of many years worked to reduce and prevent additional light pollution in the city," said Cindy Luongo Cassidy, President of Texas-based Green Earth Lighting, who led the effort to secure IDA recognition of the dark skies over Dripping Springs.

Although only about 2,000 residents live within the legal limits of the city, an additional 30,000 people living in neighboring unincorporated areas are subject to the city's ordinances. City staffers, particularly, Michelle Fischer, Jon Thompson and Jo Ann Touchstone have worked diligently to help local businesses and property owners follow the OLO and to provide information on the lighting standards for the community. This results in reduced glare, light trespass, and sky-glow while increasing safety, visibility, area attractiveness, and protection of dark night skies.

"Dripping Springs is well on its way to securing a place as one of the truly night-sky-friendly communities in the United States," IDA Texas Coordinator Stephen Bosbach said.

Protecting A Cultural Legacy
"The history and culture of the Hill Country is intimately tied to its sky, particularly its night sky," explained John Cassidy, President of the Board of Trustees of the Pound House Foundation, a local historic preservation group. "Whether sitting around a campfire or sitting in the darkness of their homesteads, those who went before us understood this land in a fundamental way that we must preserve. The clear view of the stars at night is a resource that must be saved and passed along to future generations."

To help pass along the value of dark skies, the city has teamed up with the Hays County Chapter of the Texas Master Naturalist association to develop a light pollution education and outreach program conducted by local volunteer Naturalists. The volunteers will also carry out a plan to measure and monitor the night sky quality in the future.

Residents hope that the IDA recognition for Dripping Springs will promote a movement across the Hill County to protect their exceptional night skies for generations to come. According to P. Wayne Gosnell of the Hill County Alliance, the OLO is a model for similar ordinances under consideration by communities throughout the 17-county Hill Country region. In naming the International Dark Sky Community, IDA "provides incentives to other Hill County communities to follow Dripping Springs' lead in night sky preservation," Gosnell said.

City residents recognize that the most important threats to the quality of their night skies come from beyond Dripping Springs. "Now we have to set our sights on the lights of Austin and San Antonio," Cindy Cassidy said. "We have to look beyond our town so that we don't simply get flooded with light from elsewhere."

Cassidy leads the effort to secure cooperation from cities along the Interstate 35 corridor to protect the dark skies of Central Texas by stemming the growth of new, wasteful outdoor lighting installations. She hopes other municipalities will follow Dripping Springs' lead and invites them to participate in a "better lighting" symposium to be held there in September.

About the IDA Dark Sky Places Program
IDA established the International Dark Sky Places conservation program in 2001 to recognize excellent stewardship of the night sky. Designations are based on stringent outdoor lighting standards and innovative community outreach. Since the program began, five communities, thirteen parks and five reserves have received International Dark Sky designations. For more information about the International Dark Sky Places Program, visit http://darksky.org/night-sky-conservation/dark-sky-places.

About IDA
The International Dark Sky Association, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Tucson, Arizona, advocates for the protection of the nighttime environment and dark night skies by educating policymakers and the public on the subject of night sky conservation and by promoting environmentally responsible outdoor lighting. More information about IDA and its mission may be found at http://www.darksky.org.

Media Inquiries

International Dark-Sky Association
- Dr. John Barentine (Dark Sky Places Program Manager) john@darksky.org; +1 520-293-3198

Dripping Springs
- Ms. Michelle Fischer (City of Dripping Springs Administrator)
mfischer@cityofdrippingsprings.com; +1 512-858-4725.
- Ms. Cindy Luongo Cassidy, Green Earth Lighting LLC (Dripping Springs application author) cindy@greenearthlighting.com; +1 512-944-7453

Images
Left: Backyard camping in Dripping Springs (Credit: Rob Greebon) http://bit.ly/LNaXCf
Right: Dripping Springs City Planning Director Jon Thompson (left) and Deputy City Administrator Ginger Faught (right) show a sample dark-sky-friendly light fixture to be used in street lighting replacements (Credit: Cindy Luongo Cassidy) http://bit.ly/1iCItpy

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Tucson, AZ -- (SBWIRE) -- 01/27/2014 -- The International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) announced today it has named the first International Dark Sky Place in the Republic of Ireland. Kerry International Dark Sky Reserve is the first of its kind in the northern hemisphere awarded "Gold-tier" status, placing it among an elite group of the darkest locations to receive IDA recognition. In designating the Reserve, IDA recognizes the exceptional achievements by local communities to protect and preserve dark night skies over southwest Ireland. The award will be formally presented in a reception at the Ring of Kerry Hotel in Cahersiveen, County Kerry, at 7:30pm GMT tonight.

The new Reserve sits on the Iveragh Peninsula, home to nearly 4,000 residents, and incorporates approximately 270 square miles (700 square km) of territory. While its location between the Kerry Mountains and the Atlantic Ocean provides some natural protection against light pollution, locals became concerned about future regional threats and organized for change.

The IDA designation is the result of a sustained, three-year campaign by the Kerry Dark Sky Group. Organization members dedicated countless hours educating local citizens, civic organizations and municipalities on the importance of dark-sky protection. Their efforts resulted in several towns and villages in County Kerry enacting laws requiring responsible outdoor lighting practices to mitigate light pollution. As an example, the Kerry County Council has committed to replace all public street lighting in the area with efficient, dark-sky friendly light fixtures in 2014.

"The granting of this award will provide new opportunities to enjoy and experience the beauty of South West Kerry's night sky," said Julie Ormonde, Chairperson of the Kerry Dark Sky Group and Project Manager of the Reserve. "It will encourage other areas in Kerry, and in Ireland as a whole, to take positive action to protect their own dark-sky areas."

Ireland's Long Tradition of Sky Watching
The night sky has captivated the people of Ireland for millennia. Nearly 6,000 years ago, the Neolithic inhabitants of the Iveragh Peninsula built stone monuments incorporating alignments to track cycles of the Sun, Moon, and stars. According to some experts, ancient Ogham-language inscriptions found in the region may depict celestial observations.

The dark skies over southwest Ireland trace back to a difficult time in Irish history – the mid-19th century Great Famine. As rural farmers and their families fled to cities, industrial development skipped much of the Irish countryside. "Thus, one of the few benefits that we have inherited in Iveragh from the sufferings of our ancestors is the preservation of our dark skies," explained Thomas Horgan, coordinator of Heritage Iveragh, a local historical society. "We owe no less to the memory of those ancestors or to our heirs."

Dark Skies Breathe New Life Into Tourism And Conservation
Local councils and tourism operators in Kerry hope that the new Dark Sky Reserve will raise the region's visibility as a tourist destination for stargazing under dark Irish skies. "This is a major step forward introducing new tourism to our area and we will make every effort to provide an example of what a true dark-sky area looks like," said Russell Jackson of the Ballinskelligs Tourism Group.

The new Dark Sky Reserve will be an important part of Wild Atlantic Way, a new tourist initiative for the western coastline of Ireland. According to Fiona Monaghan of Failte Ireland, the Irish national tourism development authority, "Achieving dark sky status will allow visitors to view some the exceptional skyscapes of South Kerry, which will create magical moments to treasure and experience along the Wild Atlantic Way."

Curbing the rise of light pollution in County Kerry also benefits programs working to protect area wildlife. Various bird, fish and mammal species rely on the dark skies over Kerry govern life-sustaining behaviors such as reproduction, migration, and foraging for food. The new outdoor lighting regulations help to preserve their natural habitat and the region's distinctive character that visitors have long enjoyed. "We are on the cusp of securing the region's welfare, not only by advancing new revenue streams, but also the health and well-being of the people, plants and wildlife that make up our community," explained Vincent Hyland, founder of HD Interactive Publishing based in the town of Caherdaniel, which lies within the Reserve.

High-Resolution Images
- Night sky over the Skellig Islands, Ireland (Credit: Peter Cox) http://bit.ly/KCymoX
- Winter constellations over St. Finian's Bay near Ballinskelligs, Ireland (Credit: Steve Owens) http://bit.ly/KCyCE8

About the IDA Dark Sky Places Program
IDA established the International Dark Sky Places conservation program in 2001 to recognize excellent stewardship of the night sky. Designations are based on stringent outdoor lighting standards and innovative community outreach. Since the program began, five communities, thirteen parks and five reserves have received International Dark Sky designations. For more information about the International Dark Sky Places Program, visit http://darksky.org/night-sky-conservation/dark-sky-places.

About IDA
The International Dark Sky Association, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Tucson, Arizona, advocates for the protection of the nighttime environment and dark night skies by educating policymakers and the public on the subject of night sky conservation and by promoting environmentally responsible outdoor lighting. More information about IDA and its mission may be found at http://www.darksky.org.

Media Inquiries
International Dark-Sky Association
- Dr. John Barentine (International Dark Sky Places Program Manager) john@darksky.org +1 520 293 3198 x406
Kerry Dark Sky Group
- Ms. Julie Ormonde (Chairperson) kerrydarksky@eircom.net +353 (0) 87 784 5688
Kerry County Council
- Mr. John Griffin (Tourism Officer) john.griffin@traleetc.ie +353 (0) 87 205 5555

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Celestron to donate proceeds from COSMO 60AZ Telescope sales

Tucson, AZ -- (SBWIRE) -- 01/24/2014 -- The International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) is proud to announce a new partnership with Celestron, one of the world's leading telescope designers and manufacturers. In celebration of the upcoming event television series COSMOS: A SPACETIME ODYSSEY, airing on FOX and National Geographic Channel, Celestron is introducing the COSMOS™ 60AZ Telescope and partnering with IDA to help save endangered starry skies for generations to come. In support of IDA's mission, Celestron is donating a portion of the COSMOS 60AZ Telescope proceeds to IDA.

Budding astronomers can tour the solar system with the beginner-friendly COSMOS 60AZ telescope, a longtime Celestron favorite that has been updated and upgraded for this exclusive partnership. To help grow IDA's membership and spread awareness about light pollution, every COSMOS 60AZ Telescope also includes a free one-year IDA membership.

"The loss of a starry night sky disconnects us from the natural world and reduces our ability to experience the wonders of the universe," said IDA Executive Director Bob Parks. "Celestron's generous support helps us continue to preserve and protect the natural night sky."

COSMOS: A SPACETIME ODYSSEY, set to premiere Sunday, March 9 (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX and Monday, March 10 (10:00-11:00 PM ET/PT) on National Geographic Channel, continues the adventure of Carl Sagan's Emmy® Award-winning series "Cosmos: A Personal Voyage." Celestron's partnership with IDA affirms its commitment to helping everyone experience the wonders of the cosmos.

In the 34 years since the first "Cosmos" television series debuted, light pollution has increased to levels that deprive eight out of ten children in the United States and two-thirds of the world population the experience of viewing the Milky Way. Celestron and IDA want to change that.

"Celestron has long been a supporter of IDA and the great work it does towards curbing light pollution," commented Dave Anderson, CEO of Celestron. "Providing IDA with a portion of the proceeds from one of our quality telescopes to assist with its efforts to preserve dark skies is the least we can do. We are proud to be an official corporate sponsor of IDA."

The COSMOS 60AZ Telescope will be available March 2014 at select retailers. Learn more about the COSMOS 60AZ Telescope and other COSMOS products at Celestron.com/cosmos.

About Celestron
Celestron is a leading designer, manufacturer and importer of high-quality optical products including computerized and non-computerized telescopes and related accessories, binoculars, spotting scopes and microscopes. Celestron strives to inspire a sense of wonder, knowledge and fun in their customers and throughout their company. Learn more about Celestron at celestron.com.

About COSMOS: A SPACETIME ODYSSEY
COSMOS: A SPACETIME ODYSSEY is produced by Cosmos Studios, the Ithaca, NY-based company Ann Druyan co-founded in 2000, and Fuzzy Door Productions. Druyan and Steven Soter are the series' writers. Druyan, Seth MacFarlane, Cosmos Studios president Mitchell Cannold and Brannon Braga (the "Star Trek" franchise, "24") executive-produce the series. Braga directs the series along with Bill Pope ("Spider-Man 2," "Spider-Man 3," the "The Matrix" franchise) and Druyan. "Like" COSMOS: A SPACETIME ODYSSEY on Facebook at facebook.com/COSMOSonTV. Follow the series on Twitter @COSMOSonTV and join the discussion using #cosmos. See photos and videos on Instagram by following @cosmosontv.

About IDA
The International Dark Sky Association, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Tucson, Arizona, advocates for the protection of the nighttime environment and dark night skies by educating the public on the subject of night sky conservation and promoting environmentally responsible outdoor lighting. More information about IDA and its activities may be found at www.darksky.org.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

The International Dark-Sky Association welcomes the Pic du Midi International Dark Sky Reserve as a new member of the IDA International Dark Sky Places program

Tucson, AZ -- (SBWIRE) -- 12/19/2013 -- The International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) announced today the designation of the first International Dark Sky Place in France. In naming the Pic du Midi International Dark Sky Reserve (IDSR), IDA is pleased to recognize the immense local efforts to preserve and protect the exceptionally dark night skies over the Pyrenees Mountains.

"In creating the Reserve, the Pic du Midi team has not only protected a vanishing resource, they have made it better than it was," said IDA Executive Director Bob Parks. "We commend and celebrate their exceptional efforts."

The new Dark Sky Reserve will be known in France as Reserve Internationale de Ciel Etoile du Pic du Midi. It is located in a region that currently draws 1.5 million visitors per year. Consisting of 1,202 square miles (3,112 km2) of public and private lands, it encompasses a UNESCO World Heritage Site (Pyrenees-Mont Perdu) and a French national park (Pyrenees National Park). It is the second-largest International Dark Sky Reserve in the world after Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve in New Zealand.

Pic du Midi Observatory

The efforts leading to today's designation began in the 1990s when Europe nearly lost one its premiere astronomical research facilities, the Pic du Midi Observatory. As government budget cuts threatened permanent closure, Observatory supporters secured its renaissance through a "beautiful alliance between science and tourism," according to Daniel Soucaze des Soucaze, Executive Director of Pic du Midi.

He said the International Dark Sky Reserve designation represents an "important milestone" in the history of the Observatory, and believes IDA's recognition coupled with the dedicated support of local communities greatly enhances the Observatory's long-term prospects.

Achieving this designation "is of utmost importance for the future of astronomy, both professional and amateur," said Hubert Reeves, Quebecois astrophysicist and Director of Research at the French National Centre for Scientific Research.

Energy Savings, Tourism, and Research

The motivations driving the four-year effort culminating in today's announcement expanded well beyond aesthetic and scientific considerations. According to French Senator Francois Fortassin, the "first aim" of the project was to minimize light pollution around Pic du Midi Observatory, but it soon became apparent there was much more to be gained.

As part of the efforts to achieve IDA recognition, a total of 251 communities adopted a comprehensive outdoor lighting management plan (LMP) that included retrofits and replacements of existing lighting fixtures, and the use of new lighting technologies. By 2013, early results showed the LMP could effectively reduce light pollution in the region by 85 percent and energy usage by 38 percent, all while maintaining safe lighting levels for residents and visitors.

The new lighting plan continues to provide "significant energy savings and offer economic development opportunities in the Hautes-Pyrenees area," said Christian Poncet, Regional Representative of the French power company Electricite de France.

The region is capitalizing on the IDA designation as a means of furthering research into land use policy and practices, tourism business models, and resources sustainability at the nearby University of Pau and Pays de l'Adour. A team has been designated by the University to manage the Pic du Midi IDSR project and to install and maintain scientific instruments in the Pic du Midi region to monitor the quality of the night sky in the future.

Officials at Pic du Midi have even grander aspirations for preserving dark skies in the Pyrenees. In coming years, they plan to work with their Spanish counterparts to expand the protected territory into Spain, making for the first IDA Dark Sky Reserve spanning two nations.

About the IDA Dark Sky Places Program
IDA established the International Dark Sky Places conservation program in 2001 to recognize excellent stewardship of the night sky. Designations are based on stringent outdoor lighting standards and innovative community outreach. Since the program began, five communities, thirteen parks and five reserves have received International Dark Sky designations. For more information about the International Dark Sky Places Program, visit http://darksky.org/night-sky-conservation/34-ida/about-ida/142-idsplaces.

About IDA
The International Dark-Sky Association, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Tucson, Arizona, advocates for the protection of the nighttime environment and dark night skies by educating the policymakers and the public on the subject of night sky conservation and promoting environmentally responsible outdoor lighting. More information about IDA and its mission may be found at http://www.darksky.org

URLs to High-Resolution Images and Video
- Photo: Star trails over Pic du Midi Observatory (Credit: Paul Compere / Pic du Midi): http://bit.ly/1keApxq
- Photo: Photographing the Milky Way near the village of Aulon, France (Credit: Nicolas Bourgeois / Pic du Midi): http://bit.ly/1keBu8k
-Graphic: Pic du Midi RICE Logo (French): http://bit.ly/1keC0TS
- Video: Timelapse at the Pic du Midi Observatory (Credit: Romain Montaigut, http://www.romain-montaigut.fr): http://vimeo.com/76724488

Media Inquiries
International Dark-Sky Association
- Dr. John Barentine (Dark Sky Places Program Manager) john@darksky.org +1 520 293 3198
- Mr Friedel Pas (IDA European Liaison Officer) europe@darksky.org +32 474 50 17 95

Pic du Midi
- Ms. Laurence de Boerio (Press officer for Pic du Midi) rp@deboerio.net

University of Pau and Pays de l'Adour
- Ms. Veronique Duchange (Press officer and communication manager for Pau University) veronique.duchange@univ-pau.fr

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Tucson, AZ -- (SBWIRE) -- 12/10/2013 -- The International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) announced today it has designated two new International Dark Sky Places in the United Kingdom (UK), including one representing the largest land area of protected night skies in all of Europe. This brings to six the total number of IDA International Dark Sky Places in the UK, second only to the United States.

IDA is proud to recognize Northumberland International Dark Sky Park and Isle of Coll International Dark Sky Community for their exceptional efforts in helping preserve and promote dark night skies over Britain.

"The naming of two new Dark Sky Places in the UK really takes dark skies in Europe to the next level," IDA Executive Director Bob Parks said. "We're seeing the issue approaching critical mass and placing dark skies along the frontline of conservation issues in Britain. We hope that message extends further to continental Europe and beyond."

Northumberland International Dark Sky Park
A UK National Park and adjacent forestry plantation encompassing nearly 580 square miles (1500 km2) of public lands in northern England, Northumberland National Park and Kielder Water & Forest Park are the first IDA-recognized International Dark Sky Park consisting of two in-dependent parkland units.

Once at the frontier of Roman Britain where Hadrian's Wall repelled Pictish invaders, Northumberland International Dark Sky Park now serves as a bulwark against the incursion of harmful light pollution into one of the darkest locations in England.

With today's IDA announcement, National Parks UK and Forestry Commission England adds dark skies to their portfolio of protected natural resources including the largest manmade woodland and reservoir in northern Europe. Kielder Forest provides Britain with 200 million board feet (475,000 m3) of timber annually.

The dark night sky attracts an increasing number of visitors to the region. Kielder Observatory, the UK's largest and most active public observatory, widely promotes local astronomy events and activities. "Dark skies and astronomy have become a passion in the area," according to Heidi Mottram, Chair of the Kielder Water and Forest Park Development Trust and Chief Executive of Northumbrian Water.

As both Northumberland National Park and Kielder Water & Forest Park began to vie independently for IDA recognition, it quickly became evident that two heads were better than one. "It made perfect sense to work together to protect one of our greatest assets and make it available to more people," Mottram said.

Park officials hope that protecting dark skies through the promotion of responsible outdoor light-ing will increase the allure of Northumberland as a tourism destination.

"Becoming a Dark Sky Park will reinforce the status of Northumberland as an unspoiled destination offering a true sense of tranquility and wildness – a tonic in this day and age," said Tony Gates, Chief Executive of Northumberland National Park.

Isle of Coll International Dark Sky Community
A sparse population and geographic isolation make the night skies over the Isle of Coll among the darkest in Scotland. The island adopted a quality outdoor lighting management plan to ensure Coll remains dark for many future generations of residents and visitors.

Coll lies about six miles (10 km) west of coastal Argyll and hosts just over 200 residents. It at-tracts dozens of bird species according to the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, which owns an extensive reserve at the west end of the island and hosts one of Coll's recognized night sky viewing sites on its land. Nature tourism in part draws thousands of visitors to the island each year.

"Achieving dark skies status will be great for the island in many ways," Julie Oliphant, hotelier at the Coll Hotel, explained. "Not only will it ensure that any future development on the island is done in a way that protects Coll's natural and unspoiled beauty, but it will also help promote winter tourism."

Fred Hall of the Argyll and Bute Council echoed the sentiment. "The Isle of Coll is a unique is-land in many ways, not least of which is its beautiful countryside and sea views but also the lack of light pollution," he said. "I can think of no better island in the inner Hebrides to gain the Dark Skies accolade."

Northumberland International Dark Sky Park is IDA's thirteenth while the Isle of Coll becomes the world's fifth International Dark Sky Community. They join four existing International Dark Sky Places in Britain: Galloway Forest Park in Scotland, Isle of Sark in the Channel Islands, Exmoor National Park in England, and Brecon Beacons in Wales.

About the IDA Dark Sky Places Program
IDA established the International Dark Sky Places conservation program in 2001 to recognize excellent stewardship of the night sky. Designations are based on stringent outdoor lighting standards and innovative community outreach. Since the program began, five communities, thirteen parks and five reserves have received International Dark Sky designations. For more information about the International Dark Sky Places Program, visit: http://darksky.org/night-sky-conservation/dark-sky-places.

About IDA
The International Dark Sky Association, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Tucson, Arizona, advocates for the protection of the nighttime environment and dark night skies by educating the public on the subject of night sky conservation and by promoting environmentally responsible outdoor lighting. More information about IDA and its activities may be found at http://www.darksky.org.

Left: Stargazing at Cawfields, Northumberland National Park (Credit: visitnorthumberland.com)
http://northumberland-photos.co.uk/Dark-Skies/Cawfields-Hi-Res

Right: Night sky over the Isle of Coll (Credit: Olvin Smith)
https://www.dropbox.com/s/73jh9t9i1g1a5g9/sky%20%2B%20moon%20fisheye.jpg

"Northumberland National Park By Night" (YouTube video; length: 4m32s)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=kkPYmBvBa3g

Media Inquiries
International Dark-Sky Association
- Dr. John Barentine (Dark Sky Places Program Manager) john@darksky.org, +1 520 293 3198
Northumberland and Kielder Forest
- Alex MacLennan (Recreation & Public Affairs Manager, North England Forest District) Alex.MacLennan@forestry.gsi.gov.uk, +44 (0)1434 221004
- Elisabeth Rowark (Chair, Dark Skies Working Group, Kielder Water & Forest Park Development Trust) Elisabeth.ROWARK@visitkielder.co.uk, +44 (0)1661 855536
- Duncan Wise (Visitor Development Officer, Northumberland National Park) dun-can.wise@nnpa.org.uk, +44 (0)1434 605555
Isle of Coll
- Tony Oliver (Coll application author) tony@colldigital.co.uk, +44 1879 230275
- Julie Oliphant (Hotelier, The Coll Hotel) info@collhotel.co.uk, +44 1879 230334

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Tucson, AZ -- (SBWIRE) -- 12/06/2013 -- Light pollution is a serious environmental problem. It wastes billions of dollars each year, harms wildlife and jeopardizes human health. Thanks to recent coverage by national media outlets, this important message is reaching more people than ever before.

Last weekend, "CBS This Morning Saturday" interviewed Bob Parks, executive director of the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA), for its segment "How Bad is Light Pollution?" The five-minute interview provides a quick and concise overview on light pollution and solutions to the problem.

Those wanting an in-depth discussion on light pollution can read the nine-page feature article "Where Did All the Stars Go? How Light Pollution Is Stealing the Night" in the December issue of Men's Journal. The article provides detailed information on the IDA, light pollution's negative effects, and indoor and outdoor lighting solutions. Informative graphics and stunning photographs complement the interesting read.

"On the occasion of IDA's twenty fifth anniversary, it is gratifying to see national media paying serious attention to light pollution and its negative effects on human health and the environment," said IDA Executive Director Bob Parks, "Hopefully, this national media coverage will inspire more discussions about these issues and how communities can make smarter choices for their lighting."

Watch "How Bad Is Light Pollution?" on CBS This Morning Saturday:
http://www.cbsnews.com/videos/how-bad-is-light-pollution/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zSyovTM9qkg&feature=youtube_gdata

Read "Where Did All the Stars Go?" in Men's Journal, available for purchase in newsstands and online:
http://www.mensjournal.com/
Read and excerpt of "Where Did All the Stars Go?" on the IDA website: darksky.org

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Tucson, AZ -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/03/2013 -- Astronomers and dark sky-advocates take note—you can now measure the brightness of the night sky using your smartphone. A new app for the iPhone called Dark Sky Meter uses the phone's camera to accurately measure the brightness of the night sky and deliver the results to a central database that will, in time, create a worldwide map of light pollution.

The International Dark-Sky Association (IDA), a non-profit group that has long been working to help raise awareness of the problems of light pollution, has worked closely with the app developers and hails the new app as an affordable way to measure the night sky from anywhere. Bob Parks IDA's Executive Director says, "The Dark Sky Meter is an easy, inexpensive way to monitor light pollution. I helped to test the app and was impressed by its accuracy."

The "pro" version of the app sells currently for $3.99 and compares favorably to a handheld device that retails for $130. Results can be viewed on a map that allows users to compare their results with users from around the globe. The "Lite" version of the app is free for download allowing a greater number of users to contribute data. It provides a more simplified version of the results, showing how many times brighter a sky is as compared to a natural night sky.

The ease of making the measurements with the app makes it a great tool for public outreach. Crowd sourcing the measurements at events like star parties and night sky outreach events improves the accuracy of the measurements, increases the public's awareness of light pollution, and contributes to our understanding of the problem.

App developer Norbert Schmidt and engineer Harro Treur developed the Dark Sky Meter. Schmidt explains, "During the development process we took 5000 measurements by hand and filled in 120 Excel spreadsheets with measurements before releasing the app. Each new measurement collected improves the app's algorithms making the data more accurate." Their company DDQ has developed other smartphone science apps, such as one to make fine dust measurements and one for last year's transit of Venus. More information and download links for Dark Sky Meter is available at www.darkskymeter.com. Currently the most accurate results come from those using the iPhone 4S and 5, but work continues on improving results for more devices.

Android users that are interested in monitoring the night sky shouldn't worry as there is a new app called "Loss of the Night" that can be downloaded for free in English and German at the Google Play Store (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.cosalux.welovestars).

About IDA
IDA is the only non-profit working to address light pollution around the world. Among its efforts, the organization provides information brochures, workshops, a model lighting ordinance, manages a night sky conservation program, and awards the distinguished IDA Fixture Seal of Approval to applicants with lighting fixtures that are dark-sky friendly.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Tucson, AZ -- (SBWIRE) -- 04/25/2013 -- The International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) recently met with representatives of the French Ministry of Ecology, Sustainable Development and Energy and the French light pollution advocacy group l'Association nationale de Protection du Ciel et de l'Environnement Nocturnes (ANPCEN) to recognize their effort to enact the first national law requiring that businesses turn off their exterior lighting between 1 AM and 7 AM.

Diane Szynkier, Technical Advisor to the Secretary Delphine Batho, and Anne-Marie Ducroux, President of ANPCEN, accepted awards in recognition of their efforts from IDA Executive Director Bob Parks at the Ministry's offices in Paris on April 16, 2013.

The new law will go into effect in July 1, 2013 and is expected to annually save 250,000 tons of CO2 and the equivalent energy use of 750,000 homes. In presenting the awards Mr. Parks praised France for its new protections that build on other light pollution laws that have been introduced since 2009. He says "France has demonstrated global leadership by enacting legislation that will dramatically reduce energy consumption and CO2 emissions, save money, and protect the night sky. This is a common sense energy policy that all countries should adopt."

For more information on the new law, visit the French Ministry of Sustainability website at http://www.gouvernement.fr/gouvernement/une-nouvelle-reglementation-pour-les-eclairages-nocturnes

Visit the ANPCEN website: http://www.anpcen.fr

For more information on the International Dark-Sky Association visit: http://www.darksky.org

About IDA
IDA is the only non-profit working to address light pollution around the world. Among its efforts, the organization provides information brochures, workshops, a model lighting ordinance, manages a night sky conservation program, and awards the distinguished IDA Fixture Seal of Approval to applicants with lighting fixtures that are dark-sky friendly.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Tucson, AZ -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/26/2013 -- Founded in 1988, the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) is celebrating the 25th anniversary of its founding by giving away a free digital download of the latest issue of its magazine, Nightscape.

The 20-page magazine features an engaging article by National Geographic photographer Jim Richardson, as he recounts the road trip he took across America photographing starry skies and documenting the effects of light pollution.

The interdisciplinary research project examining light pollution's impacts in Germany known as "The Loss of the Night" ("Verlust der Nacht" in German) is one of several other features in this free issue. The IDA's 2012 annual report, a look at the new light pollution video "Losing the Dark" and a profile of Lowe's Home Improvement Store's new line of dark-sky friendly fixtures are among the other offerings.

IDA's Nightscape magazine is normally offered only to the organization's members. Bob Parks, IDA's Executive Director explains, "A key component in our mission is to educate the public about the problems and solutions of light pollution. To celebrate IDA's 25th birthday we decided to offer this issue of Nightscape to everybody."

The issue can be downloaded from the IDA website here:
http://www.darksky.org/resources/nightscape

About The International Dark-Sky Association
The International Dark-Sky Association is the only non-profit working to address light pollution around the world. Among its efforts, the organization provides information brochures, workshops, a model lighting ordinance, manages a night sky conservation program, and awards the distinguished IDA Fixture Seal of Approval to applicants with lighting fixtures that are dark-sky friendly.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Tucson, AZ -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/26/2013 -- IDA Launches Indiegogo Campaign to Translate Dark Sky Film. Light pollution, the artificial brightening of the night sky, is a global problem. To help educate people about the problems of light pollution and the easy solutions to remedy it the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) recently created a short film called "Losing the Dark." Today IDA announces that it is launching an Indidgogo campaign to fund translations of the film into many languages beyond English.

IDA, a non-profit that works to control something called light pollution, the artificial brightening of the night sky caused by poor lighting, has made "Losing the Dark" freely available to planetariums, science centers and in digital HD.

The video has been seen on YouTube in over a 100 different countries, even though the show currently only exists in English. The Indiegogo campaign will greatly expand the reach of the show. IDA Executive Director Bob Parks explains, "We have translators and narrators standing by, but we need to raise the extra money to cover the final production costs. The indiegogo campaign will allow us to produce a great many foreign language versions."

He continues, "If we are successful, we will not only be able to tell people around the world what light pollution is and how it's a problem but also explain the simple solutions so that they can use to make a difference where they live."

Learn more at:

http://www.indiegogo.com/projects/taking-losing-the-dark-global/x/2665631
http://www.darksky.org/losingthedark

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm