Album: Everglades Night Skies

Everglades National Park

Due to light pollution created by excessive urban light fixtures, naturally dark skies are now a limited resource. Light pollution is also a problem for astronomers and can disrupt sensitive ecosystems. For example, sea turtles depend on natural patterns of light and dark for navigation and to hide from predators. Fortunately, the National Park Service is dedicated to protecting natural nightscapes and many national parks provide an opportunity for city dwellers to experience night skies free of light pollution. Here at Everglades National Park, Shark Valley, Flamingo, and Long Pine Key are excellent locations to take in the magnificent starry night.