ASTROTOURISM.
MENTAL HEALTH.
COMMUNITY.
The Dark Sky Cooperative brings together communities, tribes, agencies, businesses, and researchers to protect one of our most precious shared resources: natural night. At a time when millions of people can no longer see the Milky Way from where they live, we work to celebrate the wonder of the cosmos, reduce light pollution, and help communities protect and benefit from dark night skies.
What Is the Value of Dark Night Skies?
Our work helps communities, land managers, and partners better understand the role dark night skies play in visitor experience, stewardship, and destination appeal. Explore research on how visitors value darkness, star-filled skies, and the protection of nighttime environments.
Explore Research on the Human and Policy Dimensions of Dark Skies
Connecting Children with the Night
Our programs help families reconnect with darkness, stillness, and the night sky through experiences, education, and community-based programming. We highlight the value of natural night for reflection, restoration, and mental well-being.
Building the Dark Sky Economy
Dark night skies are not only worth protecting—they are also an opportunity for communities and destinations to create distinctive visitor experiences. Explore resources that help parks, communities, and businesses develop astrotourism in ways that support conservation, education, and local economic development.
Dark Skies Toolkit
Explore practical tools, guides, and resources to help communities, organizations, and residents better understand light pollution, improve outdoor lighting, support dark-sky stewardship, and strengthen public engagement around natural night skies.
