Working towards better
lighting policies

Better lighting policies are essential for combating light pollution, which wastes energy, disrupts wildlife migration and behavior, harms human health by interfering with circadian rhythms, and erases our view of the starry night sky. In places like Nevada, strong policies help preserve world-class dark skies that support recreation, tourism, astronomy, and ecological balance.

Effective measures include adopting fully shielded, downward-directed fixtures (often called “full cutoff” lights), using warmer color temperatures (avoiding harsh blue-white LEDs), installing motion sensors and timers, and reducing overall brightness levels. Communities can implement dark sky ordinances, retrofit public lighting, and promote education on responsible outdoor lighting to protect these natural treasures for future generations.

"A mysterious transaction between the
infinity of the soul and the infinity of the universe."

Victor Hugo

  • Certification for Dark Sky Places

    The Nevada Chapter of Dark Sky International proudly supports the certification of our rural towns as International Dark Sky Communities. By meeting rigorous lighting ordinances and responsible outdoor lighting standards, these communities preserve the pristine night skies that define Nevada’s high desert landscapes. Certification not only protects wildlife, human health, and astronomical heritage but also enhances ecotourism and local pride. We work closely with town leaders, businesses, and residents to achieve and maintain this prestigious designation, ensuring that future generations can experience the same awe-inspiring Milky Way visible from their backyards.

  • Bringing People Together

    At the Nevada Chapter of Dark Sky International, we are dedicated to connecting stargazers, astronomers, conservationists, educators, and community leaders who share a passion for protecting our night skies. Through star parties, workshops, outreach events, and collaborative projects across rural and urban Nevada, we build a supportive network of advocates. These gatherings foster knowledge exchange, friendship, and collective action. Whether you’re a longtime astronomer or simply someone who cherishes a truly dark night, joining us means becoming part of a growing movement united by wonder and a commitment to responsible stewardship of Nevada’s nocturnal environment.

  • Creating Awareness

    The Nevada Chapter of Dark Sky International actively works to raise awareness about the growing threat of light pollution across our state. Poorly designed outdoor lighting wastes energy, disrupts wildlife migration and behavior, harms human circadian rhythms, and washes out our spectacular night skies. Through public presentations, school programs, social media campaigns, and partnerships with local governments, we educate Nevadans on simple solutions like shielded, warm-colored, and motion-activated lights. By shining a light on this often-overlooked issue, we empower communities to take meaningful action and reclaim the beauty of our naturally dark desert nights.

Show Your Support!

America’s first ever Starry Skies License Plate!

Adding a Save Starry Skies license plate to your vehicles is a great way to celebrate Nevada's dark starry skies. Anyone who has traveled through Nevada knows that our state is one of wide open spaces, quiet solitude, and miles upon miles of uninterrupted views.

Proceeds from the sale of this plate will go to the for public education, dark sky monitoring and conservation, and to help promote low-impact astro tourism in Nevada.