On the 14th of February, the OAD hosted its first Full Moon Mashup session for 2025. The session focused on shedding light on the often-overlooked importance of darkness, the OAD’s work leans heavily on the night sky and the perspective-altering wonders of our universe. From astrotourism to using astronomy for well-being, our projects rely on the night sky to economically empower communities, change attitudes, or inspire awe and improve well-being. With invited guest Anna Levin, author of “Dark Skies”, the session brought together a diverse group of individuals who shared their passion for the night sky and discussed the multifaceted impacts of light pollution. Anna’s book considers the night sky as our “connection to something bigger than ourselves that can, in turn, help us understand ourselves and each other better”. The book looks at how we can learn from and nurture our relationship with the night sky even and especially in the context of our changing world.
The discussion delved into the cultural, environmental, and health aspects of preserving dark skies. It explored the significance of darkness in various cultures, its role in maintaining ecological balance, and its impact on human well-being. The conversation also highlighted the need to reframe our relationship with darkness, recognising its value and appreciating its benefits. Personal stories and reflections on the night sky enriched the discussion. Participants shared their awe and wonder at its beauty, and how connecting with it has fostered a sense of peace and connection. The potential of technology and astrotourism to promote dark sky awareness and conservation was also explored.
Key takeaways from the session included the importance of experiencing and appreciating the night sky, the need to shift our perspective on darkness, and the role we can all play in preserving this precious natural resource.
The OAD continues to advocate for dark sky conservation through our flagship projects on astrotourism and astronomy for mental health that recognise the importance of dark skies in order for them to thrive. The Full Moon Mashup serves as a platform for ongoing dialogue and action. By fostering awareness and inspiring change, the OAD hopes to safeguard the beauty and benefits of the night sky for future generations.