Do look up! Here's how to avoid light pollution and gaze at the beautiful skies

The darkest of Irish skies are regarded as some of the best in the world. Kerry International Dark Sky Reserve and Mayo Dark Sky Park are both considered gold tier by Dark Sky International. And recently OM Dark Sky Park in Northern Ireland became the island’s newest internationally recognised dark sky place

Dark Sky Hiking, Ross Castle, Killarney Picture: Noel Brendan / Astrophotography Club Ireland

It’s not surprising that Ireland’s wild landscapes are beloved by outdoor enthusiasts the world over. Postcards of the emerald isle are adorned with rugged coastlines, lush green fields, and magnificent mountains. An escape to these landscapes is good for the soul – a chance to leave behind the straight lines, concrete, and uniformity of urban life, and to reconnect with the land that provides us with a home.

Finding that sense of place can be an especially moving experience. That feeling is something the night sky can offer on a cosmic scale – but only if you can see it. Sadly, many of us have never experienced a true night sky because of a very modern affliction – light pollution.