Starry nights at Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument are exceptional. This national monument is a Dark Sky Sanctuary, with night sky readings that prove the monument and its surrounding neighbors have some of the darkest skies east of the Mississippi. Within its 87,564 acres there are no commercial power sources, and no electric powered lights operated during the night. The national monument is actively monitoring and working hard to protect this natural resource. Learn more about light pollution and what you can do to make a difference. International Dark Sky SanctuaryIn 2020, Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument was designated as an International Dark Sky Sanctuary by DarkSky International. The Sanctuary designation was the second of its kind in the National Park Service and distinguishes the monument for the exceptional quality of its naturally dark night skies. Katahdin Woods and Waters was the first International Dark Sky Place certified in the state of Maine and in New England. The Natural Sounds and Nights Skies division of the National Park Service has determined that Katahdin Woods and Waters has some of the darkest nights skies east of the Mississippi River. When visiting Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, notice how dark and quiet it is at night! New research further illustrates the impact that noise & light pollution have on birds and other wildlife. Learn more about how noise and light affect the wildlife by watching this webinar. Tips For Night Sky Viewing
Programs & Activities To ConsiderBe a Junior Ranger Night Explorer!Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument is an amazing place to explore the night skies and its constellations. Check out the Junior Ranger Night Explorer Booklet to learn more about the dark skies that are protected by the National Park Service. Once you complete the activities, send it in to earn a Jr. Ranger Night Explorer patch! Download your own copy of the Junior Ranger Night Explorer book [4 MB PDF] before arriving at the park! Stars Over KatahdinThe Friends of Katahdin Woods and Waters host an annual Stars Over Katahdin event, the group’s celebration of the unparalleled night skies of the Katahdin region. Each year, star enthusiasts and Volunteers-In-Parks (VIPs) astronomers gather to observe the stunning celestial objects above the monument. More Information
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Last updated: August 26, 2024