The International Dark-Sky Association is a United States-based non-profit organization incorporated in 1988 by founders David Crawford, a professional astronomer, and Tim Hunter, a physician/amateur astronomer. The mission of the IDA is “to preserve and protect the night time environment and our heritage of dark skies through quality outdoor lighting.” Light pollution is the result of outdoor lighting that is not properly shielded, allowing light to be directed into the eyes and the night sky. Light that shines into the eyes is called glare and light shining into the night sky above the horizon causes skyglow. Lighting can also cause light trespass when it is directed into areas that it is not wanted, e.g., a neighbor’s yard and windows. IDA was the first organization in the dark-sky movement, and is currently the largest. Source: Wikipedia

We all know the importance of the dark skies as far as astronomical observations are concerned. Improper and excessive installation of the outdoor lighting has affected night time observations of the skies. IDA has done a commendable job in spreading awareness regarding the same. Aas Punjab will be working towards the same mission under the chapter name IDA – Punjab. A dedicated blog, IDA-Punjab, will be started on our website.