The total solar eclipse of August 12th has once again highlighted the importance of dark skies. But light pollution remains a problem that affects ecosystems and human health. However, there is good news: in Menorca, two beaches have regained their natural darkness, and in Spain, the number of Starlight-certified destinations is growing, offering unobstructed views of the stars.
The fight against excessive artificial light is not just an aesthetic issue. Artificial light disrupts the biological rhythms of wildlife , such as sea turtles and shearwaters, and also hinders astronomical observation. That's why initiatives like those of the GOB (Balearic Ornithological Group) in the Balearic Islands or the Starlight certification from the Starlight Foundation, supported by UNESCO, are becoming increasingly important. Astrotourism is establishing itself as a sustainable alternative for rural areas.
Menorca regains darkness on its beaches
The environmental group GOB has celebrated the fact that the two light pollution incidents that affected the beaches of Pregonda, in Es Mercadal, and Sa Mesquida, in Maó, last year have ceased this summer. The organization reported at the time that spotlights from nearby houses were illuminating Pregonda beach and the islets, while in Sa Mesquida, a lamppost on the cliff and a private plot of land were projecting light onto the sand. Both areas are protected and form part of the Starlight Reserve.
The GOB (Balearic Ornithological Group) reminded everyone that the Balearic Islands' Nighttime Environment Protection Law prohibits illuminating large stretches of beach or coastline, except for safety reasons. Furthermore, they warned of the negative effects on species such as sea turtles and shearwaters. The authorities couldn't agree on who should take action, but this summer the darkness has returned. The organization appreciates the public's cooperation and hopes the situation will remain the same.
This case demonstrates that restoring darkness is possible when action is taken. And it's not an isolated incident: more and more municipalities and natural areas are opting to reduce artificial lighting to protect the sky and biodiversity.
The rise of astrotourism and Starlight certifications
The Starlight Foundation, created by the Canary Islands Institute of Astrophysics and supported by UNESCO, certifies locations with low light pollution. Among them, Sierra Morena stands out as the world's largest Starlight Reserve, stretching 400 kilometers across four Andalusian provinces: Jaén, Córdoba, Seville, and Huelva. This certification guarantees that more than 60% of its nights are clear and that its darkness is comparable to that of professional observatories.
Andalusia, being the European region closest to the Equator, offers a wider view of the universe. Other Starlight Destinations in Spain include the Sierra de Cádiz, the Guadiato Valley, the SerranÃa de Cuenca, the Izki Natural Park in the Basque Country, and the island of La Palma, among many others. Astrotourism has become an economic driver for rural areas, which offer accommodations, viewpoints, and astronomy outreach activities.
The list of certified destinations continues to grow. From Castilla-La Mancha to Navarre, and including Extremadura and the Balearic Islands, more and more regions are committed to clear skies. Starlight certification is a seal of quality that attracts travelers interested in astronomy and nature.
Where to see the Perseids without light pollution
August is the month of the Perseids meteor shower, also known as the Tears of Saint Lawrence. This phenomenon, caused by debris from the Swift-Tuttle comet, reaches its peak in the middle of the month. To enjoy it, it's essential to get away from urban centers and find places with minimal light pollution . In the province of Cádiz, the Sierra de Grazalema, the Los Alcornocales Natural Park, and the Aljibe are ideal locations. Unspoiled beaches like those of Barbate and Zahara de los Atunes also offer clear horizons.
No telescopes or binoculars are needed; the best way to observe is with the naked eye. It's recommended to arrive early to allow your eyes to adjust to the darkness and avoid looking at your phone. Bringing a mat or reclining chair will help you enjoy the spectacle. The key is finding a dark sky and being patient.
The August eclipse was a reminder of what we lose to light pollution. But it has also served to boost interest in the sky. Starlight destinations offer a reasonable compromise : we won't see the sky of prehistoric times, but we will see a firmament dark enough to revive the habit of counting stars.
In short, light pollution is a problem that can be reversed. The cases of Menorca and the growth of Starlight Destinations in Spain demonstrate that collaboration between government agencies, environmentalists, and citizens yields results. Whether it's to protect wildlife, observe the Perseid meteor shower, or simply enjoy a starry night, these initiatives are worth supporting. Darkness is not a luxury; it's a necessity.
