Dark Sky Status for Brecon Beacons

The beautiful Brecon Beacons National Park has received further protection from modern life as a result of receiving dark sky status, the first location in Wales to receive this award, and only the fifth destination in the world.  This is as a result of a joint approach from the National Park Authority and the Park Society, although the decision has been two years in the making.

Jim Wilson, Chair of Brecon Beacons Park Society, said it recognised the area as one of the best places in Europe "to truly see dark skies".  The park joins illustrious company that includes Mont Megantic in Quebec, Canada; Exmoor National Park in south west England; Aoraki Mackenzie in New Zealand; and NambiRand Nature Reserve in Namibia with the status.

The Brecon Beacons

What does dark sky status mean? Put very simply it means that the night-sky is protected and lighting controls are in place to prevent light pollution. This is great news as the Park already possesses some of the UK's darkest skies, which is ideal for stargazing. It has been said by officials that people can see the Milky Way, as well as numerous constellations, bright nebulas and even meteor showers on clear nights.

Martin Morgan-Taylor, board member of the International Dark-Sky Association, the US based organisation which awards the status, said the gradual loss of the view of the night sky was a loss of part of culture.

"Whilst no-one wants all the lights to be switched off, we can improve the lighting we use in towns and cities. However, the best views of the night sky come from places such as the Brecon Beacons, who have dedicated themselves to protecting and restoring the night sky for all to enjoy."

The chair of the Brecon Beacons National Park Authority, Julia James, was quoted as saying that attaining the status was a massive boost for the entire area, also bringing wellbeing, tourism, economic, wildlife and environmental benefits.

To get through the application process local astronomers conducted a survey to assess the levels of light pollution, and lighting engineers audited the existing external lighting in the national park.  Information leaflets and letters were distributed to residents living in the 'core zone' to help them understand the simple measures they could take, such as tilting outdoor security lights downwards instead of up, that could make difference to how dark the night sky appears.  Local communities supported the bid, with residents in Talybont-on-Usk holding their own Star Party and organising a community light switch off.

Jim Wilson, chairman of Brecon Beacons Park Society, thanked all those who had taken part in the project, saying it recognised the park as one of the best places in Europe to see truly dark skies.

Environment Minister John Griffiths called the accreditation a "massive coup". He said: "It shows the level of commitment here in Wales to tackling climate change and improving peoples' physical, spiritual and mental well-being."