Decade of Darkness
Celebrating ten years of dark skies
Due to low levels of light pollution, the Brecon Beacons National Park was awarded International Dark Sky Reserve status in 2013, making it as one of the best places in the world to stargaze.
This year, to celebrate ten years of dark skies, we are launching a campaign to make the stars shine all the brighter. From 19:30 to 20:30 on Friday 17 February we’re asking businesses and communities in the National Park to switch off non-essential lights.
Low light pollution is not only good for stargazing, it’s also vital to nocturnal wildlife and to human wellbeing.
Reducing light pollution keeps our circadian rhythm (our body clock) functioning normally. When this rhythm is disrupted it can cause behavioural, physical and mental changes.
Wildlife also needs darkness to maintain circadian cycles, just as humans do. Many nocturnal species, from hedgehogs to moths, are in decline. Bats will alter their routes to avoid artificial light, and this can have impacts on their ability to hunt or to avoid predators. By reducing our light pollution we can help protect our nocturnal wildlife.
Get involved with our campaign to switch off lights across the National Park on 17 February! Help us spread the word with these resources:
