Member Astronomical League and International Dark-Sky Association
Background:
In order to allow the maximum benefit of this dark sky observing site, it
is necessary for all users to take steps to eliminate unnecessary light.
Adaptation for best night vision is a gradual process that requires from
approximately 20 minutes to nearly an hour for some people. The majority
of individuals don't reach their best night vision for about 30 minutes.
Unfortunately, dark adaptation is easily lost with exposure to any level of
white light. Each event of exposure to white light (or bright light of any
color) will restart the period of dark adaptation. Small amounts of red
light may be tolerated without significantly degrading vision provided that
the light source is not bright and does not shine into the eyes.
Area of Control:
The area controlled by the Dark Sky Protocol will be known as the Dark Sky
Area. The Dark Sky Area is defined as the entire contiguous area described
on the map attached as Exhibit "G". The Dark Sky Area includes (but is not
limited to) all of the following within this contiguous area, regardless of
use: fields, trails, roads, parking lots, picnic areas, campgrounds, and
the interior and exterior of all structures, including buildings,
restrooms, and chemical toilets. In addition, the Dark Sky Area includes
all approach roads from a "No headlights permitted after dark" sign onward
toward the observing site.
Persons/Entities Affected:
All persons present in the Dark Sky Area are bound by the Dark Sky
Protocol, including park employees, contractors, and visitors.
Periods of Dark Sky Area Control:
This time shall be called the Dark Sky Period. Every night, when 10% or
more of the sky is not overcast and at least one observer is present, shall
require adherence to the Dark Sky Protocol. The Dark Sky Period extends
from the end of Nautical Twilight calculated at the observatory location
through the start of Nautical Twilight the following morning.
If it is raining, the Dark Sky Area Protocol will be lifted.
If it is more than 90% cloudy but with the potential for clearing, all
persons in the Dark Sky Area shall be asked to voluntarily comply with the
Dark Sky Protocol to minimize dark adaptation time when conditions permit
observing.
During a medical emergency or other bona fide emergency situation, the Dark
Sky Protocol may be temporarily lifted for those directly involved, to
ensure safety and prompt appropriate response to the emergency.
Dark Sky Rules:
The rules in this section shall apply in the Dark Sky Area during the Dark
Sky Period. All white lights shall remain extinguished. All bright lights
of any color shall remain extinguished. No light of any kind shall be
emitted from vehicles except for amber parking lights and red brake lights.
Parking lights and brake lights are permitted only while the vehicle is in
motion. Vehicle lights specifically prohibited are headlights, daytime
running lights, fog lights, search lights, backup lights, dome and trunk
lights, and entry and courtesy lights. Vehicles shall be parked such that
the reverse gear (backup lights) will not be needed upon entry or exit.
Only red lights of minimal brightness may be used in the Dark Sky Area.
Lights shall be directed downward at all times. Lighting for charts or
accessories must be shielded and confined only to the target area.
Computers of any kind must be shielded with red foil or confined, to
eliminate all light visibility beyond the actual user.
Campfires, cookstoves, lanterns, and other devices with open flames are
prohibited.
Trailers, tents, RV's and other equipment must not emit any non-red or
bright light visible from the outside.
Area-Wide and Major Event Rules:
The following two additional Dark Sky Rules apply during the Spring and
Fall area-wide star parties and during any other similar event declared
by Canyon of the Eagles to be a major event.
No vehicle may be moved to or from the observing fields during the Dark Sky
Period.
No vehicle may be moved to or from a non-field area (e.g., road or parking
lot) before midnight during the Dark Sky Period.
(See also Star Party Etiquette.)