We’re celebrating International Dark-Sky Week with an image from a corner of New Mexico that’s one of the best places to stargaze in the continental United States. Dark-Sky Week is observed during the first new moon of April, when stars shine more brightly because the moon isn’t visible. The event was created to bring attention to the harmful effects of artificial light on the natural world, and to remind us of the beauty of an unadulterated night sky. Light pollution not only impacts our ability to see the stars and to sleep soundly, but also creates challenges for many nocturnal species, migrating birds, and even baby sea turtles. So, turn out those lights, look up, and be amazed at the sky that your great-great-grandparents saw.
Dark skies over New Mexico
Today in History
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White dunes, blue lagoons
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Barcelona bids farewell to summer
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50 years of Earth Day
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Venice Skatepark, Los Angeles, California
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A seabird gets schooled
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On the wings of the Wright brothers
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Tennis in the park
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A treaty for science
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International Surfing Day
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Looking for peace on the precipice
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Unbearable cuteness
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How lovely are your branches
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Happy Thanksgiving!
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International Surfing Day
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Great horned owl fledglings
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When Death Valley blew its top
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Inhale and exhale, it’s Yoga Day
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200th anniversary of Brazilian independence
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Cosplay strongly encouraged
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Frog Month
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A walk among the giants
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Al-Khazneh in Petra, Jordan
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Cinco de Mayo
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Up on the glacier
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Mardi Gras flower power
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Honoring the rangers on World Ranger Day
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Twosday
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International Archaeology Day
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Marine Day in Japan
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Everybody loves World Turtle Day