Most Americans have never seen the real night sky. At a place in Idaho, you still can | Opinion

Note: This is the sixth and final in a series of guest opinions commemorating the Craters of the Moon National Monument centennial.

When Craters of the Moon was designated as a national monument 100 years ago, its otherworldly landscape of lava flows, rock pillars and jagged buttes was thought to mirror the lunar surface. President Calvin Coolidge signed its designation into law in 1924, nearly four decades before the first human would be rocketed into space and 45 years before Neil Armstrong’s historic moonwalk.

Yet, in an era when science fiction was captivating readers through pulp paperbacks and mesmerizing audiences in newly established small-town cinemas, this unique park kindled the imagination of a nation gazing into the cosmic unknown. Its alien terrain served as a terrestrial gateway to the stars and beyond, an experience still found by visitors today.

While modern explorations have revealed that the rugged terrain of Craters of the Moon does not actually look like the lunar landscape, this southern Idaho treasure remains the only National Park Service unit named after a celestial body, and for a century, it has offered visitors an unparalleled and largely unchanged view of the night sky. Recognizing the value of this cosmic connection, park staff have worked diligently to preserve this stellar heritage for future generations.

The park’s efforts culminated in Craters of the Moon’s 2017 designation as an International Dark Sky Park, certified by DarkSky International, a leading non-profit in the growing movement to protect the nighttime environment. This recognition highlights a critical yet often overlooked aspect of conservation: the fight against light pollution.

Light pollution continues to grow worldwide at an alarming rate, including in Idaho, as communities expand and new outdoor lighting is added to the nightscape. In the United States, a staggering 99% of the population lives beneath light-polluted skies, with 80% unable to see the Milky Way from their homes. Idahoans are fortunate in that a large portion of the state remains incredibly dark, especially in comparison to the other lower 48 states, but this natural treasure is increasingly under threat.

Craters of the Moon stands as a pillar of hope and a model for communities and parks throughout Idaho and beyond. It demonstrates that protecting the night sky is not only possible but essential to preserve our view of the stars, maintain healthy ecosystems, and safeguard our communities from the damaging effects of light pollution. Certified International Dark Sky Parks and Communities provide proof that human-built environments and starry nights can coexist harmoniously.

Moreover, the monument exemplifies how preserving natural darkness can yield substantial economic benefits. Astrotourism has emerged as a rapidly growing industry, with Forbes magazine highlighting it as a top travel trend for 2024. Communities surrounding dark sky parks are experiencing a surge in visitor interest, translating to tangible economic gains. In 2022 alone, Craters of the Moon generated approximately $9.4 million in visitor spending, a figure that underscores the park’s significant impact on the local economy.

The success of Craters of the Moon presents a compelling case for other communities to adopt night sky-friendly practices, potentially unlocking new revenue streams while simultaneously preserving the natural environment.

So what does it take to become an International DarkSky Park?

For Craters of the Moon, applying for Dark Sky certification was a natural fit. With its lunar-inspired name, rural location and minimal infrastructure, it seemed primed for the designation. However, meeting DarkSky International’s rigorous standards of protection was still no small feat.

DarkSky International, first and foremost, requires places to provide night sky quality measurements to ensure the skies above are indeed dark enough to be approved as an official dark sky place. This benchmark was easily passed by Craters of the Moon, whose skies when measured on scientific scales, rated about as dark as it gets.

But having naturally dark skies is not enough. All outdoor lighting at a certified dark sky park has to meet standards to ensure they do not produce light pollution. To become certified, a park’s lighting must be 80% compliant with a 10-year plan to reach 100% compliance. Not only is Craters of the Moon celebrating their 100-year anniversary, but just this month, they’ve also achieved the 100% compliance mark - well ahead of schedule.

Parks must also commit to educating visitors and surrounding communities about the importance of protecting the night. Craters of the Moon holds special nighttime events to accomplish this, inviting people to learn about and celebrate the cosmos with their staff, surrounded by the otherworldly terrain that defines this unique place. During September, Craters of the Moon extends a heartfelt invitation to attend star parties; night sky photography tutorials led by a Centennial Artist in Residence; and a full moon hike. Dates and details are available on the Craters of the Moon website.

Visitors are also always welcome to simply come enjoy the exceptional night sky views on your own. Standing among the ancient lava flows beneath a canopy of stars, you’ll experience firsthand the awe and wonder that has captivated and inspired generations of dreamers, explorers, and scientists for the last century.

As light pollution continues to increase throughout Idaho, places like Craters of the Moon become ever more vital to preserve our night-time heritage. By visiting and supporting dark sky parks and sanctuaries, you not only treat yourself to a transformative experience, you also become a guardian of the night. Your presence and support help ensure that future generations can continue to be inspired by the same celestial tapestry that has shaped human culture, spirituality, and scientific endeavors throughout history.

So, join us in the park after dark and help keep the wonder of the night sky alive for the next 100 years and beyond!

Drew Reagan has served since 2023 as communications manager for DarkSky International, a non-profit organization that restores the nighttime environment and protects communities from the harmful effects of light pollution through outreach, advocacy, and conservation. Prior to joining DarkSky International, he worked as an Interpretive Ranger for the National Park Service at several park units.