Image credit: Ed Hurst
Northern Beaches Council in partnership with National Parks and Wildlife Service celebrate the designation of Palm Beach Headland, consisting of Governor Phillip Park and Barrenjoey Headland, as Australia’s first Urban Night Sky Place (UNSP). Nestled within its natural ocean surroundings, the location boasts remarkable views of our starry night sky.
This prestigious designation further highlights this iconic location whilst also serving as a demonstration site to Greater Sydney on responsible lighting practices that ensure both public safety whilst maintaining amenity and supporting the preservation of our night sky.
Access
Excellent night sky viewing can be achieved from within Governor Phillip Park, with ample parking available within the reserve. Governor Phillip Park is accessible to visitors at all times.
Barrenjoey Headland (including the lighthouse precinct), is within Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. It is closed from dusk to dawn and is only open for specific approved and supervised DarkSky events. For more information please visit the NPWS information page.
Events
To celebrate the night sky a number of events are held each year, both on-site at Palm Beach Headland and elsewhere in the region. Have a look at the What’s On calendar for upcoming events.
Events relating to the UNSP are required to adhere to the UNSP Public Outreach and Education Requirements, which includes information on making a booking.
Protecting the night sky
Northern Beaches Council and National Parks and Wildlife Service have been reducing light pollution at Palm Beach Headland by:
- Upgrading lighting so that it faces downwards, is shielded to reduce light spill upwards and is in a suitable colour temperature (3,000K or below).
- Operating lighting on timers and sensors where possible so that they are only on when needed.
How can you help
You can help reduce light pollution at your home, business or school by following these guidelines from DarkSky International.
Further tips and information is available on the DarkSky International website.
FAQs
What is an Urban Night Sky Place?
An Urban Night Sky Place (Place) is a park or similar property near large urban development that is planned and designed to promote an authentic nighttime experience in the midst of significant artificial light.
Why designate an Urban Night Sky Place?
DarkSky International designates Urban Night Sky Places following a rigorous application process which demonstrates strong community support for the project and other specific program requirements. Learn more about the process.
The Place aims to educate people on the benefits of proper outdoor lighting that ensures public safety while minimising the potential harm to the natural nighttime environment.
Are there any other Urban Night Sky Places in Australia?
This is the first Urban Night Sky Place in Australia.
There are three other Dark Sky Places:
- Dark Sky Sanctuary in QLD, The Jump-Up (Australia)
- Dark Sky Reserve is SA, River Murray (Australia)
- Dark Sky Park in NSW, Warrumbungle National Park (Australia)
What are the benefits of the Urban Night Sky Place
There are many benefits to this project, including:
- Increased awareness and education of good lighting installations and design
- Reduced impacts of artificial lighting in the area, including improving the environment for nocturnal fauna
- The potential to support local businesses through promotion and event delivery
- The potential to showcase leading technology whilst reducing the operations costs associated with lighting