University of Groningen Launches Campaign to Measure Darkness and Protect the Night Sky in the Netherlands

University of Groningen Launches Campaign to Measure Darkness and Protect the Night Sky in the Netherlands

(IN BRIEF) The University of Groningen has launched a public campaign to measure the amount of darkness in the Netherlands, highlighting the importance of preserving it for both human well-being and nature. The campaign invites participants to count the stars in the Orion constellation between January 21 and February 5, and again from February 20 to March 6, when the moon is below the horizon. The results can be submitted through the website teldesterren.nl, contributing to a national effort to raise awareness about light pollution and the value of darkness. This initiative also ties into the upcoming National Stargazing Days, which will offer opportunities for further sky exploration.

(PRESS RELEASE) GRONINGEN, 15-Jan-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — In the Netherlands, the beauty of the Milky Way can be clearly observed in areas with minimal light pollution, but such dark places are increasingly rare. Darkness plays a crucial role in both human life and nature, yet its disappearance is having negative effects, according to research, including studies conducted at the University of Groningen. To gauge how much darkness remains, the university has launched a darkness measurement initiative, though, as ‘darkness guard’ Theo Jurriens points out, there are limitations to where they can measure. Therefore, the public is being encouraged to contribute to this important effort.

Central to the measurement campaign is the Orion constellation. Anyone can join by counting the stars in Orion’s easily recognizable rectangular shape. Participants are asked to go outside after 8 pm, let their eyes adjust for about 15 minutes, and then count the stars within the rectangle formed by Orion’s four corner stars. To increase accuracy, it’s recommended to take multiple counts and report the average. Results can be submitted via the website teldesterren.nl, where the data is also displayed on a map. A guide is available on the website for additional instructions.

The campaign runs from January 21 to February 5 and again from February 20 to March 6. This timing coincides with the moon’s position below the horizon, ensuring clear visibility for star counting. Measurements are discouraged in cloudy or poor weather conditions, or when the moon is visible.

The initiative aims to raise awareness about the importance of preserving darkness, a universal heritage that affects everyone. By participating, people may become more attuned to the night sky and its constellations. The campaign also serves as a precursor to the National Stargazing Days from March 7 to 9, when telescopes will be set up across the country for a deeper exploration of the night sky.

Media Contact:

communicatie@rug.nl

SOURCE: University of Groningen

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