Who doesn't dream of lying in a meadow on a warm summer evening and looking at the stars? Recognizing different constellations or even imagining certain shapes yourself?

 

It is precisely this experience of natural night landscapes that needs to be protected, as there are now only a few regions in Central Europe where the starry sky and natural darkness can be experienced undisturbed by artificial light. In the past, people used to orientate themselves by the stars in the dark; today, outdoor lighting fulfils this purpose. One of our most important cultural assets, the observation of the starry sky, is in danger.

 

However, the natural dark night sky not only provides an aesthetically pleasing backdrop, but also has important ecological and health effects. It serves as a guide for animals, which look to the stars and the moon for orientation and navigation. Light pollution impairs this ability, which can lead to confusion, disorientation and even the death of many animal species.

 

Dark skies also have a direct impact on human health. An overly lit night sky can disrupt the natural sleep cycle and lead to insomnia, stress, and other health problems. Darkness, on the other hand, is crucial to produce melatonin, a hormone that is essential for a healthy sleep cycle.

 

A natural dark night sky is therefore not only a symbol of the unspoilt beauty of nature, but also an essential component of a healthy ecosystem and a healthy society. It is our responsibility to protect and preserve it so that future generations can also experience the wonders of the starry sky.