International Dark Sky Park

I recently conducted an Interview with Mary Adams, a co-designer of The Dark Sky Park, in Petoskey, Mich. I would love for you to read it!

In the past couple of years there has been a development in Petoskey, Mich. This development is called “Headlands International Dark Sky Park”. The Dark Sky Park was initially started in 2009, which ironically is the international year of astronomy. The entire process took two years to complete, starting with getting the property protected. In 2011, they opened to the public, and crowds starting flooding in.

The brains behind the Dark Sky Park and are, Mary Stewart Adams, Fred Grey, and Mary Lou Tanton. “The events we hold take place in any kind of weather.” Stated Adams. The Dark Sky Park holds different types of events each month, which is also one of the requirements by the International Dark Sky Association. So, it is imperative that the events happen in rain, snow, or shine.

In the 1990’s Michigan was the first state to protect their dark skies. The Headlands International Dark Sky Park in Michigan was the sixth park to open in the country, and the ninth park to open in the world. The Michigan dark sky park is the only one that sits on a body of water, which is Lake Michigan.

 “The enthusiasm of the people who come here, there is a tender yet sacred moment. It is incredible to share that moment with someone.” Adams stated. They are expecting the Dark Sky Park’s popularity to continue growing throughout the years, both tourists and locals will keep returning to see the Dark sky without light pollution, and to attend the Dark Sky Park’s monthly county events.

To open the Dark Sky Park took many years of studying and research by Adams, Grey and Tanton. But with all of their hard work, the Dark Sky Park has won numerous awards. Including, The Innovative Recreation Programming award. One of their events is being held on March 20^th, which is the first day of spring. The viewer would be able to see the sun in a total eclipse because of the equinox.  

There are hiking events during the summer months, there are also events at the 600 acre Dark Sky Park every time there is a meteor shower or there is an eclipse.  “2015 has been sanctioned in order to raise awareness on the effects of artificial light at night.” Said Adams. It is partial to maintain these protected areas, so everyone can experience the night sky in its natural form.