There’s as many atoms in a single molecule of your DNA as there are stars in the typical galaxy. We are, each of us, a little universe. — Astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson,
When we admire the billions of stars in the flowing spiral of our Milky Way, we can’t help but feel awe and a deep connection to the universe.
Yet most of us cannot experience this connection because of light pollution from our cities and towns.
That is why International Dark Sky Parks are so important. They are a place for people and wildlife to find refuge from the bright lights of civilization in the solitude of nature.
Park Guide and Night Sky Coordinator Joshua Gray will talk about one of an area Dark Sky Park, the Obed Wild & Scenic River, in his upcoming talk “Night Skies Over Obed” at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 14, in The Center at Fairfield Glade, 128 Stonehenge Drive.
The public is invited to hear about the best places to observe the night sky at the Obed, and which stars, planets, and constellations might be seen at this time of the year.
Tennessee’s two designated International Dark Sky Parks — both here on the Cumberland Plateau.
The Pickett-Pogue Creek Canyon astronomy field near Jamestown gained recognition in 2015, and the Obed Wild & Scenic River north of Crossville was designated in 2017.
To gain International Dark Sky Park designation, sites must have exceptional dark-sky conditions and a commitment to preserve the night sky with responsible light policies and public education about the problems of light pollution and possible solutions.
“Located in rural Morgan and Cumberland counties, Obed is far enough away from Oak Ridge, Knoxville, and other bigger cities to experience truly dark skies,” said Gray. “With no external lighting or electricity in the park, and a willingness from park management to not install any fixtures in the future, Obed Wild & Scenic River is the perfect spot for those looking to enjoy the night sky.”
Obed park rangers offer monthly astronomy programs like night hikes, telescope viewing of stars and planets, and eclipse watch parties throughout the year.
The opportunity to see the night sky is becoming increasingly rare because of light pollution. For millennia, people and many animals, including migrating birds, have used the stars to navigate. Places like the Obed Wild & Scenic River help to keep the dark skies alive.
This presentation is sponsored by the Fairfield Glade Environmental Committee. They invite the public to attend to learn about the effects of light pollution and outdoor lighting practices that can create less pollution and disruption to wildlife.