Bannau Brycheiniog International Dark Sky Reserve
We are proud to be an International Dark Sky Reserve
The World's Fifth International Dark Sky Reserve
Bannau Brycheiniog became the world’s fifth International Dark Sky Reserve in 2013, awarded by the International Dark-Sky Association,USA. It recognises the exceptional quality of starry nights and the protections an area has put in place to keep the night dark
Martin Morgan-Taylor, board member of International Dark-Sky told us:
“We are gradually losing the night to light pollution eroding the view of the night sky, and fewer and fewer people are able to see the Milky Way.
Artificial light at night is bad for animals and human health. We can improve the lighting we use in towns and cities
Usk Astronomical Society
Today members of the Usk Astronomical Society volunteer both to take readings to check that our dark skies are truly dark, they also help deliver planetarium shows to schools and at events to introduce the wonders of the dark sky. You can see them in action at our Dark Skies Festival in September.
Dark Skies Festival
Keeping the dark skies dark
The National Park Authority works closely with our partners to improve the darkness above the Park.
Powys County Council are replacing lights in the towns and villages on northern side of Bannau Brycheiniog park from Crickhowell to Trecastle with new dark sky friendly lanterns.
Changes to lighting in Brecon town are scheduled for 2028/2029.
Friends of the Brecon Beacons
Jim Wilson (pictured) then Chair of the Friends of the Brecon Beacons was a key player in the successful application to make the National Park a Dark Sky Reserve. Speaking after hearing that the application was successful Jim said:
“I am delighted that the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park has received the award of International Dark Sky Reserve, the Park is one of the best places in Europe to see truly dark skies. It s a tribute to the work that has been done by the partnership to protect this wonderful sight for future generations.”
Top ten outdoor places to stargaze in the National Park
We have found the darkest places in the National Park at night which are the best places to see the stars from.
Top 10 Stargazing places
