Dark Skies Movement 

Don’t be afraid of the dark! Join the Dark Skies movement by turning off any unnecessary lights at night.

Why Dark Skies Are Important

Dark Skies are about more than just enjoying a beautiful celestial display. Light pollution disrupts the natural ecosystems of plants, animals and insects. Birds need starry skies to navigate during their migration. Animals need the dark to hide from predators at night. Insect populations can be heavily impacted by artificial light. Their fatal attraction to nighttime light can impact the entire ecosystem. Humans also need darkness at night to stay healthy. Artificial light exposure at night disrupts sleep patterns, can lead to impaired daytime function and obesity.   

How You Can Embrace the Night

The first and most simple step – turn off your lights at night. Outdoor lighting is the primary cause of light pollution. Make sure your outdoor lights are off by 10pm and turn off any unnecessary indoor lights. You can also make your outdoor lighting more dark skies friendly by positioning the light beam downward and adding motion sensors. You will not only be helping your own health and the health of the environment, but you’ll also be saving some money. Researchers estimate that 30% of outdoor lighting in the U.S. is wasted by lights that aren’t shielded, costing consumers $3.3 billion in excess energy charges. 

2024 Don't Be Afraid of the Dark Photo Contest

In 2024, Nevada County, the City of Nevada City, the City of Grass Valley, and Nevada County Arts Council launched a “Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark” photo contest as part of an initiative to encourage residents to limit light pollution and enjoy the natural beauty of the night sky. The winners of each category (Professional, Amateur/Emerging Artist, and Youth) were announced on July 8, 2024, and can be viewed digitally here. 

Learn More

Learn more about how you can help preserve dark skies at DarkSky.org.