Parks at Night unveils the unseen beauty and critical importance of national parks after dark. It explores the unique opportunities these protected lands offer for stargazing and observing nocturnal wildlife, emphasizing the need for dark sky conservation. Discover how light pollution threatens nocturnal ecosystems, impacting animal behavior and obscuring the wonders of the night sky. The book blends scientific insights with folklore, revealing the cultural significance of darkness and the stories it inspires. Beginning with the concept of the “nocturnal park,” the book progresses from celestial wonders and astrophotography to the behavior of nocturnal wildlife and the challenges they face. Learn about the cultural astronomy of indigenous peoples and how their knowledge connects them to the land.
Did you know that many animals rely on the darkness for hunting, mating, and navigation, making dark skies essential for their survival?
Or that national parks offer some of the last remaining havens for truly dark skies, free from the pervasive glow of urban light? This book provides nature enthusiasts, travelers, and amateur astronomers with practical guidance, scientific information, and captivating stories.
By combining conservation biology, cultural anthropology, and astronomy, Parks at Night offers a holistic understanding of the value and vulnerability of these nocturnal environments, empowering readers to protect these precious resources.
