
Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT IS A DARK SKY PARK?
A Dark Sky Park is more than just dark, it is a place where exceptional starry skies are protected and valued as an important educational, cultural, scenic and natural resource. By protecting our dark skies we help ecosystems and wildlife, attract off- season tourism and reduce our carbon footprint.
In May 2016, the International Dark-Sky Association awarded us a Gold Tier standard of International Dark Sky Park. The certification process is modeled on conservation programmes, such as UNESCO World Heritage Sites and Biosphere Reserves.
A Gold Tier award is the highest possible accolade, meaning that Mayo is now internationally recognised as one of the best places in the world to view the wonders of the night.
In May 2016, the International Dark-Sky Association awarded us a Gold Tier standard of International Dark Sky Park. The certification process is modeled on conservation programmes, such as UNESCO World Heritage Sites and Biosphere Reserves.
A Gold Tier award is the highest possible accolade, meaning that Mayo is now internationally recognised as one of the best places in the world to view the wonders of the night.
WHAT IS THE INTERNATIONAL DARK-SKY ASSOCIATION?
WHY ARE DARK SKIES IMPORTANT?
IF I LIVE NEAR THE DARK SKY PARK, WILL I BE ASKED TO TURN OFF LIGHTS?
HOW WILL IT AFFECT ME?