The world's largest 'dark sky sanctuary' is now in Oregon

[mahatmakanejeeves]

The world’s largest ‘dark sky sanctuary’ is now in Oregon

By Nathan Wilk (KLCC)
March 15, 2024 6 a.m.



This undated photo shows an image of the Milky Way as seen from the Warner Valley Overlook in Southern Oregon. In March 2024, a 2.5 million-acre swath in Southern Oregon was named the world's largest dark sky sanctuary by DarkSky International.
Joey Hamilton/TravelOregon

A section of southeastern Oregon is now home to the largest “dark sky sanctuary” in the world. … The area spans 2.5 million acres of Lake County. It was certified this month by DarkSky International, a U.S.-based nonprofit that aims to reduce light pollution.

Travel Southern Oregon director Bob Hackett said this new title recognizes the sanctuary’s pristinely clear skies, and the commitment of its landowners to preservation. … “It’s not a no-light movement,” he said. “It’s a good light movement.”

Hackett said to get here, project partners have had to develop a lighting management plan. He said eight state and federal agencies have agreed to follow it.

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[cyclonefence]

1. Last fall we went

to Watoga State Park near Marlinton WV which at that time was Queen of the Dark Skies (maybe because of the huge radio telescopes located in that area) and were astounded by the night-time skies. These dark sky sites are totally worth traveling to experience--I fear it won't be too long before there's no place in the US where you can see the depths of the heavens without light pollution.