Cottonwood Canyon State Park, Oregon.

​When was the last time you saw the Milky Way? Have you experienced that moment when the night sky stops you dead in your tracks? Over 80% of the U.S. population can no longer see the Milky Way or the majesty and splendor a pristine star-filled night sky.

​Experiencing the night sky in all of its majesty has been a part of the human experience for millennia. Because of pervasive artificial light at night, seeing a night sky full of stars and the Milky Way is becoming more and more of a rarity. Over 95% of North Americans live under some level of light polluted night skies, and 80% can no longer view the Milky Way. 

Light pollution has dramatically increased for decades. 2001 study and prediction for 2025.

Light Pollution Map 2015 Atlas. The estimate for 2025 was exceeded 10 years earlier. Light pollution doubled in the years between 2011 and 2022.

Everything Under
​the Stars

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NEW: STUDY - LIGHT POLLUTION IS SKYROCKETING.

A Dark Sky Saga: Goldendale Observatory
in the spotlight.

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​It has now been 20 years since the designation of the first International Dark-Sky Place: ​

If you haven't already, please join the IDA.

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Dark Sky Defenders is a 501c3 tax-exempt non-profit organization dedicated to enrich and expand the global appreciation and support for the preservation and protection of the night sky through education and advocacy. Our website also collaborates with other astronomy groups and organizations to provide outreach activities related to astronomy and science, as well as education about dark skies and the reduction of light pollution.

​Donations to Defenders are tax-deductible.

Join the Defenders

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​The night sky is disappearing worldwide at an alarming pace. Dark Sky Defenders is dedicated to advocacy for its conservation and protection.​

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​​The Good Neighbor Lighting brochure is now available for download!

​The brochure explains how easy it is to be a good steward of the night sky and provide for pleasing and effective outdoor lighting, without creating a nuisance to others or adversely impacting one's health, wildlife, or the beauty of the night sky.

A full view can be seen and downloaded on our Solutions page.

High quality tri-folded copies on heavy gloss stock can be obtained directly from Dark Sky Defenders for groups and organizations, along with a brochure display holder if desired, for a minimal cost to cover postage and handling. Use the Contact page to obtain more information, a free sample, or to order.