The newly launched Campaign for Dark Skies Network (CfDS Network) is connecting individuals and communities across the country to collect data, share learning, and take action to protect dark skies. Here in the North Wessex Downs, that work has been underway since 2023 through a partnership between the National Landscape and the Blackett Observatory in Marlborough.

Using handheld Sky Quality Meters (SQMs), volunteers head out on moonless nights to measure how bright or dark the night sky is above them. Every reading adds to a growing picture of the night sky across the landscape and helps us to better understand the impacts of light pollution.  While satellites can map light levels from above, community observations provide a different perspective, helping us understand the night sky as it is experienced by those who live, work, and explore in the landscape.

The Friends of the Marlborough Telescope developed a bespoke online portal to record and share observations, while local astronomy groups and communities have helped establish a network of monitoring locations. Over the past year, the project has grown significantly. The National Landscape has funded handheld SQMs, supported local groups and worked with the Blackett Observatory and Newbury Astronomical Society to introduce more people to dark sky monitoring and the wonders of the night sky.

As the new CfDS Network develops, we will continue to support local involvement through events and partnership working. The network is free to join and offers a great opportunity to connect with others interested in understanding and protecting dark skies.

Ultimately, this work is about something simple: protecting the wonder of a star-filled sky and the ecosystems that depend on truly dark nights.