The IDA, a non-profit organization fighting to preserve the night sky, has recognized Ireland for its first International Dark Sky Place.

The International Dark-Sky Association has announced the designation of the first International Dark Sky Place in the Republic of Ireland. Kerry International Dark Sky Reserve is the first of its kind in the northern hemisphere awarded "Gold-tier" status, placing it among an elite group of the darkest locations to receive IDA recognition.

The new Reserve sits on the Iveragh Peninsula, home to nearly 4,000 residents, and incorporates approximately 270 square miles of territory. While its location between the Kerry Mountains and the Atlantic Ocean provides some natural protection against light pollution, locals became concerned about future regional threats and organized for change.

The IDA designation is the result of a sustained, three-year campaign by the Kerry Dark Sky Group. Organization members dedicated countless hours educating local citizens, civic organizations and municipalities on the importance of dark-sky protection. Their efforts resulted in several towns and villages in County Kerry enacting laws requiring responsible outdoor lighting practices to mitigate light pollution.

"The granting of this award will provide new opportunities to enjoy and experience the beauty of South West Kerry's night sky," said Julie Ormonde, Chairperson of the Kerry Dark Sky Group and Project Manager of the Reserve. "It will encourage other areas in Kerry, and in Ireland as a whole, to take positive action to protect their own dark-sky areas."

For more information about the IDA and its mission, please visit darksky.org.

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