Recent studies show that light pollution is increasing by about 10% annually worldwide, but Flagstaff is a city where local and county governments, concerned residents, many local groups, the Flagstaff Dark The darkness of the night has been preserved thanks to the cooperative efforts of the Skies Alliance. The benefits of Flagstaff’s night sky conservation policies and practices extend far beyond astronomy, and dark nights are also known to be beneficial to human health, nature, cultural heritage and tourism.

At a press conference introducing the special meeting, James Lowenthal of Smith University’s Astronomy Department and AAS Light Pollution Commission showed the view from Mars Hill overlooking Flagstaff, describing it as “…you can’t see.” A view of the city,” he said.go elsewhere in the US [with] a city of this size. […] Other cities would be 5 to 10 times brighter from the air. The light is shining, poorly controlled, bluer and brighter. But Flagstaff is different. Not in Coconino County. ”

A special meeting on light pollution featured presentations from many Flagstaff locals outside the astronomy community. Traffic engineer Jeff Bauman. City Councilman Austin Aslan. Coconino County Development Manager Jay Christeman. and county superintendent Matt Ryan.

In response to the presentation, Flagstaff Dark Sky Coalition Executive Director James Rounds said: “We are delighted that the work of our coalition, local observatories, governments, and residents of Flagstaff and Coconino County has been recognized by the AAS.” Our skies are a pride here in Northern Arizona and we are thrilled to be recognized as the world leader in light pollution mitigation. ”