Inspiration – DarkSky International

DarkSky reads: Go dark with a good book

Natasha Chortos — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 20:50:05 +0000

When the sun sets, the world does not disappear, it transforms. Sounds soften, shadows deepen, and familiar landscapes require a different way of understanding. And while your view of the ground around you may be limited, the sky opens above, inviting you to look up and peer deep into the universe. In today’s ever-brightening world, …

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How to request a proclamation or letter of support for International Dark Sky Week

Drew Reagan — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 18:50:40 +0000

During International Dark Sky Week, requesting a proclamation or letter of support is a meaningful and accessible way to raise awareness about light pollution and the importance of responsible outdoor lighting. These requests can help bring attention to practical lighting solutions, highlight the benefits of protecting the night sky, and open the door to productive, …

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Turning awareness into action: 10 ways to celebrate International Dark Sky Week

Natasha Chortos — Wed, 07 Jan 2026 14:21:37 +0000

This International Dark Sky Week, we invite you to “GO DARK” with us by stepping outside after sunset and experiencing the nighttime environment around you. From the darkness needed for a restful night’s sleep to the activities we enjoy beneath the stars, the night is filled with wonder and importance—and we want as many people …

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2025: United for the night – A year of worldwide progress

Drew Reagan — Thu, 04 Dec 2025 16:32:55 +0000

2025 has truly been a year written in the stars, marking another meaningful chapter of growth not just for DarkSky International, but for the entire global dark sky movement we are proud to be part of. We would like to take a moment to reflect on this extraordinary year, made possible by you, our community …

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DarkSky holiday lighting tips: Celebrate the night with thoughtful light

Drew Reagan — Wed, 03 Dec 2025 23:55:59 +0000

Lights can bring cheer to the festive holiday season, creating a sense of warmth and wonder connected to deep traditions and joyful family memories. However, what feels cheerful to you may not be as delightful to the birds nesting in nearby trees, or your neighbor across the street, impacted by a rogue spotlight. The good …

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Celebrate the night with our pumpkin carving templates

Natasha Chortos — Thu, 16 Oct 2025 14:59:28 +0000

This spooky season, celebrate the beauty of the night with a nocturnal-themed carved pumpkin. We’ve created a special collection of templates featuring some of your favorite nighttime creatures—bats, owls, moths, and more—to help you get started. Whether you’re crafting a glowing bat for your porch or designing your own dark sky-inspired creation, we hope you’ll …

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Building dark sky connections with Michelle Wooten

Megan Eaves — Wed, 12 Mar 2025 15:10:38 +0000

DarkSky Delegate Dr. Michelle Wooten is an astronomy educator and president of the Starry Skies South DarkSky chapter. In this interview with Nightscape editor Megan Eaves, she shares her work in protecting the night sky in the southeastern United States and how to build partnerships and communities in your local area. You’ve built communities and …

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Exploring “Lights Out”: The Smithsonian’s special exhibit on reclaiming the night

Savannah Pobre — Fri, 17 Jan 2025 20:32:36 +0000

When you step into the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, your eyes are immediately drawn to the towering elephant at the center of the rotunda. Majestic and lifelike, this iconic figure, affectionately known as Henry, has become a museum staple—and even a star in Night at the Museum. While Henry always stands proudly in …

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Reflecting on 2024: A year of global milestones for DarkSky

Drew Reagan — Mon, 30 Dec 2024 21:09:48 +0000

2024 was a dark sky year to remember! Not only did we reach significant milestones as an organization, but it was also a year filled with extraordinary dark sky events that inspired people to step outside and look up in awe and appreciation. From stunning auroras lighting up the skies to a solar eclipse that …

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Reflecting on Under One Sky 2024: A global gathering to protect the night

Drew Reagan — Thu, 21 Nov 2024 19:55:31 +0000

Under One Sky 2024 was our largest and most impactful global conference to date! Nearly 1,000 individuals from 53 countries registered for the event, showcasing the remarkable growth and strength of the global effort to protect the night. This year’s inspiring lineup of speakers and workshops equipped participants with valuable tools, fresh insights, and meaningful …

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Van Gogh’s starry skies

Megan Eaves — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 18:03:19 +0000

Vincent van Gogh loved the night sky. “For my part I know nothing with any certainty, but the sight of the stars makes me dream,” the Dutch painter wrote in a letter to his brother, Theo, in 1888. It was the year he began painting some of his most famous images of starry skies. He …

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Darkness for Well-Being

Megan Eaves — Fri, 23 Aug 2024 14:14:00 +0000

If you’ve ever stood under the stars and taken a deep breath, you might have noticed the therapeutic effects of natural darkness. Research has shown that connecting with nature has many positive benefits, like greater mental and physical well-being, enhanced quality of life, increased satisfaction, and a decreased risk of depression. Exposure to light at …

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