Ten years ago, on March 26, 2011, Jasper National Park became the largest dark sky preserve in the world. In the decade since, the importance of protecting the night sky from light pollution has gained momentum and more dark sky preserves have been designated around the world; Jasper’s now holds the second biggest spot, though is still the largest accessible dark sky preserve (meaning there’s a town within its borders).
Jasper National Park was designated a dark sky preserve in 2011 by the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada. Here's why Dark Sky Preserves are important and where you can gaze at the stars in Jasper National Park.
The northern lights are one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena. The shimmering waves of electromagnetic energy have long inspired astronomers, photographers, scientists, tourists and legions of others to stay out after dark and turn their gaze skyward.
As host of the Jasper Dark Sky Festival, science journalist Niki Wilson has extensive knowledge about the protected skies above Jasper National Park. But she also grew up in Jasper, giving her an intimate familiarity with the local celestial wonders. Here, she writes about what those stars mean to her.
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Professional photographer Jack Fusco shares his tips and locations on shooting the night sky in Jasper National Park.
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Well now Jasper's Dark Sky Preserve is just being a show-off.