the opportunity to work with parks and other facilities in the future to bring the sky to families in the county .”
The parks can ’ t protect the night alone . Sky Meadows ’ status as a dark sky park is threatened by light pollution sprawling from nearby communities , including those in Loudoun County .
Laura Greenleaf , who represents IDA members in Virginia , says that residents who want to help can “ support the park ’ s Dark Sky Park designation by becoming part of a team focused on outreach at the park and beyond in nearby communities . Advocating improved lighting policies and practices with the park ’ s neighboring counties , cities , and towns is essential to the future of any dark sky park . Businesses and local government officials need to hear from dark sky park supporters because only they can reverse the trend of growing light pollution .”
Light pollution is rapidly getting worse every year . The IDA defines light pollution as any adverse effect of artificial light at night . The IDA identifies three kinds that commonly affect our communities : skyglow , glare , and light trespass .
The bright dome over Washington , DC as well as smaller communities like Leesburg is an example of skyglow . Light shining upward and sideways , bouncing around wastefully in our atmosphere , makes it hard to see the stars .
“ There was a meteor shower last year ,” says Melody , a high school senior in Purcellville , “ and my friend asked if I wanted to watch it . It was in the middle of the night . We went to bed for two hours and then woke up and talked
wander I spring • summer 2023 19
Photo : Srikar Kanchana in Fauquier County