Conserving the Wilderness of the Night Sky
Discover Your Night Sky
Learn how to be a scientist by observing and gathering information about the sky at night.
Below are links to activities, tools, information and fun learning opportunities. Observe the moon, take light brightness measurements, and locate constellations. Learn about the birds, bats and other animals that fill the skies at night. All of these creatures including humans need dark skies. Click on each image to learn more:
Be an Astronomer: The RAO Activity Book
Be an astronomer! The RAO's activity book is your ticket to the moon. Learn about our celestial neighbour and the importance of dark skies with fun facts and the latest scientific research. The RAO's guide shows you how to observe the moon also to measure the brightness of the sky.
Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area
Be an ecologist! Learn more about the Ann and Sandy Cross Conservation Area, a nocturnal preserve near the RAO. It is dedicated to protecting habitat and providing space for native species of wildlife. Learn about the birds and animals that are active in the night and how the ASCCA conserves the land and night sky.
Alberta Community Bat Program
Be a biologist! Learn about bat conservation in Alberta. Bats are active at night. They have had to adapt the ways they hunt and fly due to light pollution in the sky. Learn more about how you can contribute to the ACBP through citizen science.
Calgary Migratory Bird Response Team
Be an ornithologist! Learn how to reduce the risks faced by migratory bird species. During each migration period, the Calgary Migratory Bird Response team surveys birds and bats in Calgary to learn how they are adapting to the challenge of light pollution. Learn more about their citizen science project and how you can help.
Royal Astronomical Society of Canada - Calgary Centre
Doug Thorp, RASC
Be a great citizen. Learn how you can identify and prevent light pollution in your community. The RASC wants everyone to have access to dark skies and have a chance to connect to the universe. They are a wonderful resource on how to observe the moon, planets and celestial objects.
What is Light Pollution?
Light pollution is unwanted artificial light that has a negative affect on humans, birds, animals, insects and plantlife. Our natural world is what is below our feet, on the ground, in the air and up above into our atmosphere. Conserving the wilderness of the night sky is as important today as protecting all other parts of our natural environment.
Enter your dark sky measurements
After you have followed the guidance of how, when and why to take the light brightness measurements for your community. All of the details and instructions are found in the step by step light measurement guide. Once you have taken your light measurements, click on the link and upload your data to our light pollution mitigation project.