If you want to do some serious stargazing from home, check out this time-lapsed video of the Milky Way in Kimberley, Western Australia.
Bisbee is the latest Arizona city to earn the prestigious designation of International Dark Sky Community, a title awarded by DarkSky International to areas that show exceptional dedication to preserving the natural nighttime environment.
Bisbee's efforts to reduce light pollution include a citywide lighting ordinance passed in 2022 and a five-year plan to retrofit public lighting with eco-friendly fixtures. The Bisbee Dark Skies initiative also leads educational outreach and partners with local schools to promote awareness of dark-sky conservation.
The historic mining town, known for its vibrant culture and steep canyon streets, joins more than 20 other dark-sky locations across Arizona.
Here's everything to know about dark sky places in Arizona.
What is the international dark sky program?
The International Dark Sky Places program was created in 2001 to encourage the protection of night skies through responsible lighting policies and public education. Over 200 dark sky places have been certified in 22 countries on six continents. Designations include parks, reserves, sanctuaries, and urban night-sky places.
Receiving dark-sky certification involves a variety of measures that may include using outdoor lighting that minimizes light pollution, community outreach and education, and working to affect public policy. It demonstrates the location's commitment to preserving the nocturnal environment.
Bisbee's designation as an International Dark Sky Community reinforces Arizona's reputation as a leader in dark-sky conservation.
In 2001, Flagstaff was named the first International Dark Sky City in the world. In November 2024, Flagstaff opened the $53 million Astronomy Discovery Center at Lowell Observatory, where astronomer Clyde Tombaugh discovered Pluto in 1930.
International Dark Sky Places in Arizona
An International Dark Sky Place is a publicly or privately owned conservation area that protects its night skies through responsible lighting policies and public education.
These are Arizona's Dark Sky Places:
International Dark Sky Sanctuaries in Arizona
International Dark Sky Sanctuaries are the most remote and often darkest places. The designation underscores the significance of safeguarding nocturnal environments and protecting them from artificial light.
There are no International Dark Sky Sanctuaries in Arizona. New Mexico has the Cosmic Campground International Dark Sky Sanctuary.
International Dark Sky Reserves in Arizona
International Dark Sky Reserves are dark zones surrounded by a populated periphery, where strict policy controls safeguard the darkness of the core. These reserves conserve natural nightscapes and promote responsible outdoor lighting practices for the well-being of the ecosystem.
There are no International Dark Sky Reserves in Arizona. The Greater Big Bend International Dark Sky Reserve encompasses west Texas and northern Mexico.
Urban Night Sky Places in Arizona
An Urban Night Sky Place is one that fosters an authentic nighttime experience despite being in an area with significant artificial light.
Arizona has one Urban Night Sky Place and it's Saguaro National Park in Tucson, which received the designation in November 2023.
International Dark Sky Communities in Arizona
An International Dark Sky Community is a city or town recognized for its commitment to outdoor lighting ordinances and educating residents on the significance of dark skies. These communities work to reduce light pollution and promote responsible outdoor lighting practices. This designation aims to balance the needs of urban life with the protection of the night sky.
Here are Arizona's International Dark Sky Communities: