Although we tend not to realize it, we are privileged in terms of a starry sky. In our enormous expanse of unspoiled nature where light pollution is quite minimal, the stars really shine at night. For astronomy buffs, August is unquestionably a superb time to observe the Perseids, a prolific meteor shower.

Imagine discussing them around a fire under the stars. Happiness! For many nocturnal creatures, artificial light has a number of negative impacts on their biological cycle. Caring about conservation also means being interested in light pollution.

For the 125th birthday of its creation, the Parc national du Mont-Tremblant has given itself a gift: that of becoming the first international starry-sky park in Québec. But before obtaining this provisional status from the International Dark-Sky Association, we must meet several criteria.

To do this, we’ve sought the support of IDA-Québec, the Québec section of the International Dark-Sky Association; of the Parc national du Mont-Mégantic; and of the Club d’astronomie of the Domaine Saint-Bernard, in order to submit our candidacy.To achieve this goal, we are undertaking conversion of exterior lighting fixtures to reduce the intensity of their projection.

The action aims to preserve the integrity of the nighttime environment, but also to preserve our starry – “dark” – sky. Thanks to all these small actions, we hope to obtain official status as the first international dark-sky park in Québec and the second in Canada after Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, in Alberta. Our park gives you 1510 square kilometres for contemplating the stars!

For more information:  ricemm.org   darksky.org

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