Dark Skies are Our Heritage

Long-time readers here know that I am a HUGE supporter of dark skies initiatives. We’ve been members of the International Dark Sky Association (IDA) for many years. The more I read about the effects of light pollution (and of late-night exposure to light) on all forms of life, the more I realize that it’s something we all need to be concerned about.

The International Dark Sky Association helps fight light pollution by helping people understand what it does to their health, the environment and the wildlife that shares this planet with us. And, it’s increasingly obvious that unshielded lights cost all of us a LOT  of money in wasted fossil fuel costs.

One of IDA’s main goals is to show people how simple it is to help mitigate the problem. They’re not there to turn off all lights, or decrease security. One of their major goals is to help people learn how to use light properly; how to light only the places that need it and keep light from bouncing UP to the sky.

Every few months I urge people to join IDA, or at least support it with a donation. And, that time’s come up again.

Bring the Message to Your Local Planetarium

THIS time, I’ve got a special project to tell you about. One that you can participate in with a contribution.  It’s called Losing the Dark and it’s a video that will show up in planetarium domes and other venues in the near future.

I’m very proud to be associated with it because I’m the writer, co-producer and narrator of the program! Other colleagues involved in the show include Mark C. Petersen (videographer, video producer, and soundtrack, and my partner at Loch Ness Productions), the fine fulldome producers at Dome3D (city time-lapses and assorted animations), Dr. Connie Walker (of NOAO) and the IDA Education Committee, the fine folks at IDA, and many others.

Why am I telling you this? Because IDA is raising funds for the production and distribution of the show, and they need help from as many people as possible. So, like the fundraisers at PBS or NPR or any other of your favorite charitable causes, I’m lending my voice to IDA’s fundraising appeal for Losing the Dark. A few dollars from you and your friends will help all of us spread the word about light pollution through this lovely little video. And, if you want a perk — well, think about this: if more people get the message about shining lights exactly where they’re needed and NOT up to the sky, we’ll ALL benefit from the dark skies that result.  And, aren’t the stars worth a few bucks?

To read more about the project and make a donation, check out the special IDA “Losing the Dark” Web page.

When you’re filling out the donation form at the “Donate Here” link, be sure and click on the special box that asks if you want your donation  to help support the “Losing the Dark” planetarium show. Or, if you call in,  make sure and tell them that you’re directing your donation toward the  production and distribution of this unique video.

And, while you’re at it, why not join IDA as a member? You have nothing to lose but the glare that washes out the night!