Dark sky conference: Under One Sky, November 6-7

The DarkSky International organization is hosting its annual dark sky conference, titled "Under One Sky," on November 6-7, 2026. This virtual event aims to unite a global community committed to combating light pollution and preserving the night sky through various means such as advocacy and conservation. The 24-hour conference will feature leading experts, storytellers, and advocates, sharing solutions and tools for protecting the night sky.

Topics will span a wide range, including astronomers exploring distant galaxies, entomologists studying nocturnal insects, and more. The conference will offer transformative talks, insightful panels, and interactive workshops to empower attendees to make a difference in their communities, whether it involves improving urban lighting, protecting rural skies, or promoting responsible astrotourism.

With approximately 99% of people in the U.S. and Europe living under light-polluted skies and 80% of people in North America unable to see the Milky Way from their homes, this event offers a platform to address this growing issue. Light pollution has been a persistent problem for decades, leading some astronomers to coin the term "noctalgia" (sky grief) for their sadness over the loss of dark skies.

However, there is hope, as recent NASA data shows that lights at night are getting dimmer in certain areas. To find the darkest skies near you, a light pollution map is available, or you can consult EarthSky’s Best Places to Stargaze page for community recommendations on enjoying dark skies.