New Brunswick Aims to Create the World's Largest Dark-Sky Preserve
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New Brunswick is embarking on an ambitious initiative to establish the world’s densest dark-sky corridor, a sprawling sanctuary designed to protect the night sky from light pollution and promote astrotourism. The project, spearheaded by provincial officials and local conservation groups, seeks to designate a vast stretch of land as an International Dark Sky Reserve—a certification granted by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) to areas with exceptional starry nights and stringent light-pollution controls.
The proposed corridor would span over 10,000 square kilometers, encompassing national parks, rural communities, and indigenous lands. By minimizing artificial lighting and implementing dark-sky-friendly infrastructure, New Brunswick hopes to attract astronomers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts eager to experience pristine celestial views. The initiative also aligns with broader environmental goals, as reducing light pollution benefits nocturnal wildlife and lowers energy consumption.
Similar efforts have succeeded in places like Jasper National Park in Alberta and Mont-Mégantic in Quebec, which became Canada’s first Dark Sky Reserve in 2007. New Brunswick’s plan, however, is notably more expansive, aiming to connect multiple protected areas into a single, unbroken dark-sky zone. Local businesses are already preparing for an influx of visitors, with plans for guided stargazing tours and astronomy-themed accommodations.
If approved, the project could position New Brunswick as a global leader in dark-sky preservation, offering a model for other regions grappling with the encroachment of urban light pollution. Public consultations are underway, with officials optimistic about achieving IDA certification within the next few years.
