| IDA takes great pride in its efforts to protect our natural nightscapes. Yet night sky protection starts locally, with a dedicated group of citizens. Through our International Dark Sky Places program, IDA and its partners certify locations with exceptional nightscapes as International Dark Sky Communities (IDSC), International Dark Sky Parks (IDSP), and International Dark Sky Reserves (IDSR).
These locations serve as reminders that with quality outdoor lighting, the extraordinary wonders of the nighttime sky and night environment are just as much a part of our lifestyle and history as are the daylight hours. In fact, without the inspiration from night sky objects, much of the world's history, art, culture, music, and literature would not have been created. IDSPlaces celebrate this rich heritage with innovative outreach programs meant to inspire others to cherish the sky.
Individual International Programs:
How to become an International Dark Sky Place
An IDSPlace offers much more than an exceptional night sky. Community support and outreach play a crucial role. The designation almost always starts with a small group of individuals who organize to seek formal protection for their nightscape. Designations are open to communities and publicly and privately managed land areas. Please read the IDSPlaces FAQ to learn more.
Download the IDSPlaces FAQ
Télécharger le IDSPlaces FAQ
Download the IDSPlaces Preguntas más frecuentes
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What's New?
Big Bend National Park Designated International Dark Sky Park
On 2 February 2012 Big Bend National Park was designated as an International Dark Sky Park, one of now just ten in the world. It came in at the ʻGold Tierʼ level meaning that the skies above the park are free from all but the most minor impacts of light pollution.
Read IDA Press Release >>
Homer Glen, Illinois Becomes World's Fourth International Dark Sky Community
The Village of Homer Glen, Illinois became the world's fouth International Dark Sky Community on 21 November. Located 30 miles southwest of Chicago, Homer Glen's proximity to a major city presented large challenges but also valuable opportunities to raise awareness on the negative effects of wasteful outdoor lighting.
Homer Glen's statewide leadership and education campaign for smart lighting policy has earned the recognition of this prestigious award.
Read IDA Press Release >>
More Media
Atlantic Monthly Cities: Darker cities, brighter stars
Southtown Star: Homer Glen earns international honor for light rules
Space.com: Down with light pollution: Illinois town prizes its dark side
AccuWeather.com: Homer Glen, IL becomes third International Dark Sky Community
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