Dark Sky Places, a program by the IDA, which promotes preservation and protection of night skies around the world announces the update of their guidelines (effective as of June12th).

In an effort to stay current the International Dark-Sky Association announces new guidelines for their Dark Sky Places (IDSPlaces) program, which was first introduced in 2001 in Flagstaff, Ariz. as a community.

Dark Sky Places are broken into three groups: communities, parks and reserves. An IDSPlaces community is recognized based on the dedication of the town, city, municipality, or other legally organized community preserving the night sky with responsible lighting and enforcement of quality lighting codes.

Since 2001 three more communities have been added as IDSPlaces communities, Borrego Springs, Calif. USA (2009); Isle of Sark, Channel Islands, UK (2011); and Homer Glenn, Ill. USA (2011).

The first park, Natural Bridges National Monument in Utah, USA was introduced in 2006. Parks are designated based on their starry skies and natural nocturnal habitat. There are currently 11 parks, with the most recent addition being Death Valley National Park, Calif. USA.

Five reserves have been established with locations across the globe, ranging from the southwest of the USA to New Zealand and Africa. The importance of the reserve is immeasurable, as they are the perfect example of what is trying to be accomplished.

For more information about IDA or IDSPlaces, please visit darksky.org. The new guidelines went into effect on June 12th.

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