Dark Skies Matter
LIGHT POLLUTION destroys our ability to enjoy the wonders of the night sky. Most of the US population never sees the incredible beauty of the Milky Way or experiences the
amazing views possible under truly dark skies.
The map below is taken from the 2021 Light Pollution Atlas where the colors indicate the intensity of light pollution with white being the worst (Boston, New York etc) and dark being best (Maine north of Greenville).
Montreal
Qubec City
Rockwood
Greenville
Indeed, the Moosehead Lake Region boasts the darkest skies in the eastern United States. The AMC wilderness has been recognized as an International Dark Sky Site, a unique distinction in New England and the premier designation in the Eastern U.S. However, this remarkable natural asset of Moosehead Lake is at risk from excessive, inadequately shielded, or broad-spectrum outdoor lighting. Such light pollution not only obscures the night sky and diminishes its appeal for dark sky tourism but also disrupts wildlife and migration patterns. Moreover, studies indicate that bright, unshielded outdoor lighting fails to prevent crime, as intense shadows provide better concealment due to the way our eyes function in the dark.
The Moosehead Lake SkyWatch Far Reach Observatory sits in dark skies rated Bortle 1-2 which means the stars are visible for exceptional eyesight to limiting magnitudes of 7.6 to 8, and the Milky Way can cast shadows on white objects, and the Gegenschein and Zodiac Light are frequently visible. This means visitors can enjoy exceptional views of faint galaxies and nebulas through the observatory telescope. And your own binoculars will reveal stunning star fields.
2006 Nightime
2022 Nightime
Do Not Let Our Nights Go Bright!
