Flagstaff, Arizona, stands out as a rare example of a metropolitan area actively preserving the night sky. Unlike most cities where artificial light drowns out the stars, Flagstaff has intentionally designed its lighting to minimize pollution and maximize visibility of the Milky Way—even from downtown. This commitment recently earned the city the title of Dark Sky Place of the Year from DarkSky International, a recognition of its decades-long dedication to preserving natural darkness.
A History Rooted in Astronomy
Flagstaff’s pursuit of darkness isn’t new. In the late 19th century, astronomer Percival Lowell chose the high-altitude, dry air of Flagstaff to build his observatory, seeking clearer views of Mars. This set the stage for the city’s future: in 1958, astronomers successfully pushed for the first lighting ordinance, ensuring minimal interference with celestial observations. The darkness also attracted other scientific institutions, including a U.S. Naval Observatory and a Geological Survey center, further cementing Flagstaff’s astronomical significance.
How Flagstaff Keeps the Lights Down
The city’s approach is deliberate and enforced. Outdoor lights use amber LEDs, reducing disruptive blue and green light. Shielding is mandatory on all fixtures, directing light downward instead of skyward. Strict limits are placed on lumens per acre, ensuring that brightness remains controlled. As a result, even a park just two miles from downtown registers a Bortle scale rating of 4—dark enough to see the Milky Way clearly. (The Bortle scale ranges from 1, darkest skies, to 9, like New York City.)
A Community Embracing the Dark
Flagstaff’s dark skies aren’t just preserved by law; they’re woven into its culture. The city features a Dark Sky Brewing Company, Galaxy Diner, and even a Dark Sky Drive. Residents take pride in their unique environment, although occasional disputes arise over excessive lighting, like a recent disagreement over a giant inflatable reindeer. Despite minor conflicts, the community actively stewards the darkness, proving that minimal light can still illuminate the human experience.
“We really have something to say to other cities around the world,” says Danielle Adams of the Flagstaff Dark Skies Coalition. The city’s success demonstrates that preserving the night sky isn’t just about astronomy; it’s about community, stewardship, and a commitment to a vanishing natural resource.
