Heritage & Rural Character

Star gazing has been a human pastime since ancient times. The ancients interpreted constellations and arrangements of the stars and planets that they saw in the night sky to have important meaning for themselves and their families. Similarly, night skies were important to indigenous people and early settlers. As light pollution becomes more prevalent, the ability of humans to view and enjoy the night sky diminishes. This has subtle but significant cultural impacts, especially for future generations.

Communities recognize, appreciate, and work to protect their unique and beautiful night skies often from a cultural, value-based perspective.