Executive Committee WG Dark and Quiet Sky Protection

Description

Reduction and prevention of artificial sky glow and radio-frequency interference is a priority goal of the IAU. This Working Group is a continuation and transformation of the WG on the International Year of Light 2015. It focuses on the protection of the sky for astronomical observations at all wavelengths. It includes collaborative efforts with the IAU-UNESCO initiative of World Heritage astronomical sites.

Vision:

To make tangible progress in stopping the encroachment of artificial sky glow and radio-frequency interference on major astronomical research facilities.
To raise public awareness to prevent the losses caused by light pollution for all observatories and for the fundamental right to starlight as in Resolution 2009-B5.
To work with relevant national and international authorities to set up legal policies and guidelines for the protection of astronomical quality of areas suitable for observational research and/or meriting astronomical world heritage status.

To set specific tactical goals and devise and carry out plans for implementation, this Working Group coordinates the activities of Commission C.B7 and its associated Commission-level Working Groups:

Technical Working Group covering spectral output, propagation, artificial sky glow and RFI, and regulatory issues.
Site Protection Working Group, to coordinate and facilitate efforts focused on professional observing sites.
Inter-commission Working Group on Achieving Sustainable Development within a Quality Lighting Framework, joint with Commissions C.B7 and C1. Primary focus is dark sky protection as part of sustainability in worldwide curricula.
Inter-commission World Heritage Working Group, joint with Commissions C.B7 and C4. Goal is to gain status for astronomical areas with cultural significance for the history of the field through the Windows on the Universe/High Mountain Observatories proposal to UNESCO.

EC Liaisons: Laura Ferrarese, Monica Rubio

Links:

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Executive Committee Working Groups undertake essential functions on behalf of the IAU as a whole. It is at the discretion of the EC how long the ECWG continues. Every three years there should be an evaluation of the current Chair as well as the continuation of the WG. A second term could be considered but no longer (6 years max).