The Starlight Conference 2024, held from October 20-23 in the beautiful setting of Tekapo, New Zealand, jointly hosted by the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve board and by the Royal Astronomical Society of New Zealand, brought together experts, researchers, and advocates to address the pressing issue of light pollution under the theme “Dark Skies for All: A Call for Action!”. The number of registrations received was 130 coming from 17 different countries Thirty-eight participants were from overseas. The programme listed 58 talks and 11 posters. ย
The conference was very interdisciplinary and offered a platform to explore critical topics around light pollution, including:
- Environmental and biodiversity impacts
- Effects on human health
- Astrotourism opportunities
- Legal and policy frameworks
- Cultural implications and Indigenous perspectives
- Satellite impacts
- Public attitudes toward light and darkness
- Awareness-raising initiatives
Our colleague Yana Yakushina was invited as a keynote speaker to discuss regulatory approaches to protect the nocturnal environment. Yana presented the classification of light pollution regulations highlighting examples and pathways for future progress. Additionally, the PLAN-B Project was introduced, showcasing efforts to enhance understanding of light pollution and its impacts in Europe. ย
Some key takeaways included:
- There is a need for innovative marketing strategies to broaden awareness of light pollution.
- The importance of a systematic overview of the impacts of artificial light at night (ALAN) on ecosystems and species.
- Standardizing research methods and measurements for ALAN.
- Promoting dark sky tourism as a means to reduce light pollution and preserve nocturnal environments.
- Increasing adoption of regulatory measures to address light pollution challenges.
The conference provided a unique opportunity to exchange ideas, inspire collective action, and strengthen networks among professionals working to protect dark skies.
As eloquently put by Shu An Hsu: โOur planet consists of 30% land, 80% oceans, and 100% dark skies.โ Letโs continue to protect them!ย ย