Dark skies roadshow a stellar success

The first stage of a project to protect and celebrate the dark skies over the Howardian Hills National Landscape has been hailed a success.

The initiative run by the Howardian Hills Partnership saw seven public events staged. Held between September 2023 and March 2024, most were oversubscribed with approximately 255 people attending.

Richard Darn, project coordinator, said: “What’s been apparent is just how much people value their dark skies. The number attending speaks for itself.

"We combined colourful talks on light pollution, its impact on wildlife, plus stargazing with viewing through telescopes when skies cleared.

"It’s obvious there is concern that the proliferation of lighting could impact some of our darkest landscapes, including the Howardian Hills.”

The Howardian Hills has been monitoring the quality of its night sky since 2019 with special light meters, working alongside a similar survey operating in the North York Moors National Park.

This has now been strengthened with the installation of four automatic devices which take sky quality readings through the night.

It’s hoped that by collecting data over time a clear trend will emerge.

Mr Darn added: “We also asked people to complete feedback forms.

"Everyone said that we need to act to protect our dark skies.

"Nearly all also indicated they were prepared to modify their lighting to produce less stray light, or even replace lamps with dark sky friendly designs.

"In total 46% of respondents thought their sky has got brighter over the years.”