Appreciating and preserving the wonder of a star-filled sky

The wonder inspired by gazing at a star-filled sky has deep philosophical and cultural significance, reinforcing the importance of studying the heritage of the night sky. 

Next week, April 21 to 28, 2025, is International Dark Sky Week, a global celebration of the night. Here are some of our college‘s multidisciplinary efforts to contribute to the science and support of the issue of light pollution along with ways you personally can appreciate our shared night sky.

Did you know George Mason has an Observatory on the Fairfax, VA campus? The largest on-campus observatory in the mid-Atlantic region and the second largest on the east coast, the George Mason University Observatory mission is to inspire curiosity, foster scientific understanding, and ignite a passion for the wonders of the Universe among people of all ages and backgrounds. By embracing innovation, scientific rigor, and a passion for discovery, the George Mason University Observatory aspires to be a catalyst for scientific learning, and a cherished community resource, fostering a shared sense of awe and appreciation for the marvels of the night sky and beyond.

One of their foundational pillars is the conservation of Dark Skies, recognizing the importance of preserving our natural environment and reducing light pollution. The Observatory team advocates for the conservation of dark skies through educational initiaitives, aiming to raise awareness about the impact of light pollution on astronomy and the environment. 

Did you also know that Department of Environmental Science and Policy chair Gad Perry’s chapter on Night Lights and Reptiles is included in the go to resource on Artifical Light at Night (ALAN): Ecological Consequences of Artificial Night Lighting. Published in 2006, it is still considered by many as the leading book on light pollition and ecology. Several dark sky advocates mention it was this body of work that got them into fighting light pollution. In his recent video series posted on social media, Perry explains how urban ecology can pave the way for the encompassing goal of One Health to succeed. Urban green spaces can support a thriving co-existence between people and many different species, a win-win situation.

How can our science community, and all across George Mason including the larger surrounding community, better understand about light pollution and support this effort?  

George Mason University alumna, founder of Dark Sky Friends and the DarkSky NOVA Chapter Leader, Eileen Kragie is working hard to build awareness and advocacy for the issue of light pollution in our region and across the state. According to Kragie, Virginia leads the east in dark sky conservation with five designated International Dark Sky Parks (the largest number of International Dark Sky Parks of any state east of the Mississippi), demonstrating a strong commitment to preserving the night sky. The work being done at the George Mason University Observatory and the College of Science plays a significant role in education and policy advocacy for dark sky conservation at both the state and regional levels. The College of Science actively supports local efforts in dark sky conservation and education, participating in DarkSky International’s local chapter, DarkSky NOVA, with Observatory directors Peter Plavchan and Rob Parks and astrophysics student, Emily Thorne serving as chapter leaders.

Higher education and research are crucial to study the full range of light pollution’s impacts, including effects on wildlife such as birds, fireflies, hatching turtles, nocturnal creatures, and plants, as well as its influence on human physical and mental health.

According to its Director Rob Parks, the George Mason Observatory is moving forward on an undergraduate research project this summer to create a light map of the George Mason University Fairfax Campus. “This may aid in future policy and decision making with an intent of basing sensible policies on a data driven approach,” Parks explained. 

Curious about what you can do? How about taking the Dark Sky pledge and assessing your home or business dark sky friendliness by following the Five Principles of Responsible Outdoor Lighting at Night.   

As Kragie said... “All of the education and awareness is great, but if it is not effecting behavioral change then what is it all for?”