Darkness and starlight

Topic:

       

This article is about one of the darkest places on Earth.

            

       

Before reading:

         

General Knowledge:

• Can you find the US state of New Mexico on a map?
• What is "light pollution"?
• What is astronomy?

          

Speculate:

• This article mentions some of the important benefits of darkness. What might they be? How might darkness be important to people and animals?

             

Click on the embedded link below to read the article, see photos, and listen to or download the audio file on the PRI website. Word count: 621

            

A place where the stars are so bright you can see your shadow by starlight

After reading:

          

Review and discuss:

• Write a 3-4 sentence summary of this article. Begin your summary with "This article is about…".
• The article mentions that some places, like France, are enacting laws that are intended to reduce light pollution. In addition to reducing light pollution, what might be some of the other effects of laws like this? Can you think of both positive and negative consequences?
• At the end of the article, Al Grauer asks: "So what's the price of imagination? Where does the next generation of poets and scientists and engineers … come from?" What do you think he is suggesting with his question? How does his question relate to his interest in astronomy?
• In your own words, explain why the Grauers believe that the Cosmic Campground is important.
• In your opinion, what was the most interesting thing mentioned in this article? Why?

            

Reflect and evaluate:

• Would you be interested in visiting the Cosmic Campground? Explain.
• Do you know a good place for star-gazing? Have you tried star-gazing before?
• The article included a short list of some of the benefits of darkness. Can you think of any that weren't included?
• Is there anything else you'd like to know about this topic? Do you have any questions that weren't answered in the article?
• What vocabulary words were new to you in this article? Make a record of what you have learned.

          

Beyond the page:

• How many constellations can you name? If you want to learn more, try this website (Neave.com). Set your location to see a map of the night sky, and learn the names of the constellations! Want more? Download one of these smartphone apps: SkyView Free (iPhone) or Sky Map (Android)
• Learn about the International Dark Sky Association, search a map to find dark sky places around the world, and more: International Dark Sky Association
• A little something extra for science lovers—check out the Grauers' website for their podcast: Travelers in the Night

            

Also in the news:

• Want to know more about the importance of darkness? Read this article: Why We Should All Be Worried that We Don't Get Enough Darkness in Our Lives

          

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