Protecting the night
That’s why the International Dark-sky Association ( IDA) developed the Dark Sky Places Program in 2001, to support communities all over the world in protecting their dark sites.
It’s also why Subaru Canada has recently launched the Subaru Dark Sky Project. The Project’s mission is to get families
It might surprise you that the problem isn’t limited to cities. Artificial light in rural areas— and yes, even in cottage country— can prevent us from seeing constellations, comets, meteors and other wonders of the galaxy.
and friends to enjoy the star-filled sky, visible at designated areas known as Dark-sky Preserves. The preserves are kept free of artificial light and are protected from the encroaching light pollution of urban zones. The Royal Astronomical Society of Canada recognizes 17 of these preserves in this country, from Nova Scotia’s’ Kejimkujik National Park in the east, to B.C.’S Mcdonald Park Dark-sky Park in the west. Other official sites include Torrence Barrens in Ontario’s Muskoka region— the first designated Dark-sky Preserve in Canada— and the Mont-mégantic International Dark-sky Preserve in Quebec.
There are certain protocols to keep in mind when visiting one of these protected preserves.
With so many Dark-sky Preserves north of the 49th parallel, chances are there’s a designated stargazing park near you. Here are two suggestions for your next adventure.
STARWATCHING ETIQUETTE
It can take up to an hour for the human eye to fully adjust to low light conditions, so be mindful of protecting your night vision, and the vision of others. Do not bring white light onto the site—only red lights and headlamps allowed. If you must use red lights, keep the light pointed downward. And remember to keep your cellphone turned off.
Make sure to park your car in designated areas, away from the observing field, to prevent interference from vehicle lights. Finally, be considerate of those around you. Don’t set up a telescope too close to your neighbour, and avoid shouting or listening to music—starwatchers prefer to enjoy the ink-black sky in peace and quiet.
REACH FOR THE STARS
Gordon’s Park on Manitoulin Island is one of the darkest observing sites in Ontario. The park has camping amenities, kids’ playgrounds, and educational hiking trails. Plus, it boasts an 8-inch Dobsonian telescope, which is used for Thursday night astronomy sessions and at its two annual constellation parties: Stargazing Manitoulin in July and the Manitoulin Star Party in August.
JasperDisneyfor good World National reason:of dark-skyPark Locatedhas preserves,been200 miles called and westthe of Edmonton, the park— the second-largest preserve in the world— offers outdoor fun during the day and a spectacular wilderness of stars at night. Keep your eyes peeled for another kind of star in Jasper. Former International Space Station Commander Chris Hadfield has previously headlined the park’s annual festival.
Did you know
Subaru is the Japanese term for the cluster of stars in the Taurus constellation, known as the Pleiades or “The Seven Sisters.” Greek myth has it that one of the Sisters is invisible, which explains the six stars on the Subaru logo.
ADVENTURES OFF THE BEATEN PATH
Summer is the ideal time to visit a dark-sky preserve in Canada. The warm weather is ideal for camping; kids and adults alike will love sleeping under a sky draped in twinkling stars. And serious stargazers won’t want to miss the breathtaking Perseid meteor shower in mid-august, considered to be the best shooting-star show of the year.
Most dark-sky preserves are within easy driving distance of major cities. But getting in and around these remote areas calls for a vehicle that can handle tough terrain. The 2016 Subaru Outback is ideal. With the push of the X-mode button, you’ll get more grip and stability on uneven roads and challenging inclines. And for active families who want to enjoy the parks during the day, the Outback comes with adjustable roof racks to securely tie down bikes, canoes, and kayaks. Plus, it’s loaded with safety features: Driver-assist technology includes pre-collision braking to stop the car when there’s an accident ahead, and lane-departure warnings alert you when your vehicle is too close to another lane.
For centuries, the stars have been a source of inspiration and wonder for the mysteries of the universe. So pack up the kids and get out on the road to enjoy some of Canada’s best nightscapes. You’ll end up totally in the dark. And that’s a good thing.