PARI named International Dark Sky Park
The Milky Way Galaxy is clearly visible over PARI’s 26-meter radio telescope. PARI photo
The Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute in Transylvania County has been awarded the prestigious designation of International Dark Sky Park, recognizing the exceptional quality of the night sky over PARI and its commitment to education outreach.
In order to be designated as an International Dark Sky Park, PARI had to meet stringent programming, monitoring and infrastructure requirements set forth by the International Dark Sky Association. Existing park lights were modified to be dark sky-friendly fixtures including low-temperature bulbs — 3,000 degrees Kelvin or less — full cut-off shielding, motion detectors and timers. These changes enhance the natural darkness within the park.
The International Dark Sky Association established the International Dark Sky Places conservation program in 2001 to recognize excellent stewardship of the night sky. The IDA is based in Tucson, Arizona, and 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.
Natural nighttime darkness is a rapidly vanishing resource east of the Mississippi River, and few locations remain where stargazers can find dark night skies within easy reach. The preservation of dark areas in parks and protected lands is important to ensure the wellbeing of wildlife and accessibility of dark skies for future generations.
Located at a former NASA facility and dwelling under the dome of the dark sky, PARI is building on its historic past to create a destination for the study, celebration and enjoyment of science.
