Keweenaw Night Sky Etiquette

Experiencing the night sky—whether it's chasing the northern lights, witnessing rare cosmic events, photographing the Milky Way, or simply stargazing—can be a deeply magical and awe-inspiring experience. The absence of artificial light allows us to connect with the natural world in a unique way, enhancing our senses and immersing us in the beauty of the universe. As more people flock to dark sky destinations to enjoy these celestial wonders, it's crucial to follow a few simple guidelines to protect the pristine darkness of these nightscapes. If you're visiting the Keweenaw or any other dark sky location, here are some key Keweenaw Night Sky Etiquette tips to preserve the natural beauty of the night sky and ensure that everyone can enjoy the stars to the fullest.

Do NOT Make Light

Vision is crucial for human daily life and, as visual creatures, we instinctively default to finding ways to improve our vision in dark places. Inventing artificially produced light has greatly changed how we encounter the night and we have worked hard to improve that technology with brighter and more portable light. However, darkness is critical for night sky viewing and introducing any artificial light to a scene degrades the visibility of the night sky.

It doesn't take much for innocuous light sources to bust long exposure aurora photos.

Artificial lights not only have the ability to overpower night sky phenomena (e.g., the delicate glow of the aurora) but they can also impair our already minimal night vision. To truly enjoy the night sky, it's essential to minimize the amount of artificial light present at a dark sky viewing location. This isn't just for your personal benefit but also out of respect for others who are there to experience the same magic.

While we need artificial light for driving, emergency response, and safety, we often just use it for ease of mobility and comfort. Before turning on a light at a dark sky viewing location, ask yourself if the light is truly necessary. In other words, “Do you ‘need’ to use a flashlight or do you ‘want’ to use a flashlight?” The answer to that question is certainly different for every person in every situation. However, sometimes allowing enough time for your eyes to adjust to the environment can suffice. Remember, it can take up to 40 minutes for night vision to fully return after exposure to white light; so, be patient and protect your eyes from exposure to light during their recovery period.

Sometimes we feel we need to have additional light due to being in a dark location and not being comfortable with the “unidentified things” that surround us. This type of fear in the dark can stem from various sources — fear of other people, animals, the unknown, or simply unfamiliar surroundings. If you're planning a dark sky viewing excursion, it's important to overcome or manage these types of fears. 

For instance, when experiencing the dark conditions of the Keweenaw, it can sometimes be a little unnerving when you think you hear something moving in your surroundings. It is easy to conjure the image of a bear or some other animal making that noise. A person's normal response to that might be to quickly shine a flashlight to see what is making the noise. However, given that 1) viewing the night sky is a common activity in the Keweenaw, 2) most locations suitable for viewing the night sky in the Keweenaw are fairly well known and accessible by people, and 3) most wild animals are extremely wary of humans – it’s far more likely you are encountering another person who’s also wanting to see the northern lights or the milky way core. Instead of shining a bright light in the direction of the noise, try to let your initial reaction be to simply say “Hello”…especially since those making the noise you heard are clearly following good night sky viewing etiquette.

Becoming more comfortable with being in the dark at a remote location will also help reduce your need for artificial light. Ways to do this include:

• Bringing a friend with you: Having company can make the darkness less intimidating and sharing the experience can make it even better..

• Scouting the location during daylight: Familiarity with the area can reduce anxiety and will give you a deeper appreciation of the location.

• Practicing being in the dark by doing more outdoor activities after dark without lights in spaces where you are comfortable.

• Understanding that large animals (e.g., black bears) normally avoid people at all costs:  This will remind you that the sound you heard was likely not what you imagined.

When we find peace in the night, a whole new world is laid before us.

REDUCING YOUR LIGHT IMPACT

Have you ever been in a dark room long enough that your eyes have become accustomed to the low light and then someone unexpectedly turns on the lights? It can initially be so bright that it can actually feel painful. Please consider that reaction to bright light when participating in after-dark events. However, if you absolutely must use artificial light, be thoughtful about the sources of light you are producing and follow these suggestions to minimize your light impacts.

• Use a flashlight that emits red-colored light. (Red-colored light does not impact night vision as adversely as white light.)

• Never shine a flashlight/headlamp/cell phone light (including a “red” flashlight) in the direction of another person.

• If you are wearing a headlamp, remember that if you turn your head toward someone else, you are shining your light directly at them. Wearing a headlamp around your neck can illuminate your path but it keeps the light directed downward.

• If possible, shield your cell phone screen, camera LCD, or other similar screens from others when outside in the dark.

• When using your flashlight/headlamp light (even if it is red) around others try to reduce the amount of light being broadcast by covering the lens with your hand and only allowing the sliver of light you need to pass through the gaps between your fingers.

• Use a small amount of dark non-residue tape (e.g., gaffer tape or black painter tape) to cover the recording light on your camera.

• Recognize that others might not realize the impact they are having on your experience. When others are using lights, be tolerant if they accidentally disturb you with their light and try to remain polite if it happens repeatedly.

Other light sources you might want to consider:

• Interior dome lights in cars: Turn them off before your night sky adventure. Interior car lights are designed to spread light and they illuminate spaces larger than you might think..

• Car dashboard lights: Dim them before you depart on your night sky adventure. This will reduce your night vision recovery time upon your arrival.

• Cell phone and camera screens: Dim them to the lowest brightness to prevent the light impacting your night vision and affecting the experience of others nearby.

• Cell phone camera flash and flashlight: Disable the flash and avoid using the flashlight function. These are designed to flood the area in front of the phone with light. Consider downloading a “night-light” app that has a red light option.

• Car headlights: Dim your headlights before arriving and, if possible, avoid sweeping headlights across the viewing area. Park your car so the headlights face away from the viewing area and consider using the orange parking lights instead.

By minimizing light, you not only enhance your own dark sky experience but also respect the enjoyment of others. Please choose to use artificial lights only as an absolute last resort. Embrace the darkness, let your other senses guide you, and enjoy the night.

A special note about Sodalite (Yooperlite) Hunting:

In recent years a popular activity for many people has been to search for specimens of sodalite (commonly called “Yooperlite”). These particular rocks fluoresce with an orange glow when exposed to ultraviolet light after dark. So, as a result, clear, dark skies desired for dark sky viewing are also excellent times for people searching for sodalite during the spring, summer and fall months. However, ultraviolet light (and the purple glow created by the artificial lights used for this activity) while counter-productive for viewing the dark night sky is necessary for finding sodalite. If you encounter people searching for sodalite, please remember that the locations to which we all have access are multi-use and that, just as night sky viewers are not purposefully impacting the recreation of others, the opposite is also true. In fact, some people seeking dark sky experiences choose to do both activities on a single evening.

Have patience and share the night! 

Be Respectful and Polite

Dark sky adventurers have diverse motivations—capturing photos, experiencing the northern lights for the first time, sharing a night sky experience with loved ones, studying celestial phenomena, or seeking a deeper connection with nature. Regardless of the reason, everyone wants to enjoy their experience. Being kind and respectful can lead to meaningful interactions, whether it's learning about the physics of the aurora, getting night sky photography tips, or simply making new friends. Remember, though, that some people seek solitude, while others enjoy group activities. Please respect everyone's space and experience.

Avoid Making Assumptions

As mentioned earlier, darkness can stir up fears and uncertainties. As a result, it's easy to misinterpret nearby unknown noises or what other people might be doing at a remote location. Remember, others might be just as wary of you. Offering the benefit of the doubt and avoiding fearful assumptions can help maintain a respectful and enjoyable atmosphere for everyone.

Travel Cautiously and Considerately

Traveling to and from dark sky viewing spots can sometimes be risky...especially during winter in the Keweenaw. The excitement brought about by the occurrence of night sky phenomena can accentuate the potential dangers of traveling from location to location.  For example, while the aurora is on full display it can be tempting to try and watch it while driving to a desired viewing location.  However, it is important to follow all traffic laws, to drive attentively, be cautious regarding localized road and weather conditions, do not drive when you are tired, and have contingency plans in place for unexpected situations.

Once at a viewing location, be mindful of other night sky viewers and photographers.  Avoid walking in front of photographers, especially if you are carrying a light. Do not shine lights toward photographers or in the direction they are taking pictures. You also might encounter people who are unfamiliar with certain hazards at particular locations (e.g., steep or slippery Lake Superior shoreline or remains of historic mining operations), if you see them moving toward a known hazard, kindly let them know.

Follow Leave No Trace and Nature First Principles

The natural world faces increasing challenges and damage caused by human activity. Leave No Trace principles help to minimize these impacts through education and thoughtful outdoor recreation practices. The seven principles are:

• Plan Ahead and Prepare

• Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces

• Dispose of Waste Properly

• Leave What You Find

• Minimize Campfire Impacts

• Respect Wildlife

• Be Considerate of Others

Views like this at Esrey Park remain accessible and beautiful when we all work to minimize our impacts on the landscape.

Because Leave No Trace is largely focused on camping and hiking, Nature First (The Alliance for Responsible Nature Photography) has adopted a set of photography specific principles as a means of mitigating the negative impacts on public and protected lands due to the sharing of location information on social media, the increased popularity of photography, and the dramatic increase in public land visitation. These principles are:

• Prioritize nature's well-being over photography.

• Educate yourself about the places you photograph,

• Reflect on the possible impacts of your actions,

• Use discretion when sharing locations,

• Know and follow rules and regulations, 

• Always follow Leave No Trace Principles, and

• Actively promote and educate others about these principles.

Be Ready to Help

Night sky viewing can present unexpected challenges - especially in the Keweenaw’s remote areas, harsh weather, and limited connectivity. Be prepared to assist others who might be ill-equipped for the conditions. Helping each other is how people historically survived in the Keweenaw and it’s how we continue to thrive.

Respect Private Property

Do not trespass on private or tribal lands without permission. Respecting property boundaries helps maintain access rights and fosters goodwill with landowners. For accessible private lands, follow any use restrictions diligently in order to preserve these privileges.

By following these etiquette suggestions, you can enhance your night sky experience while respecting others and the environment.

This article is adapted from Tom Oliver's forthcoming book, Aurora Chasing in the Keweenaw. All photos are provided courtesy of Tom Oliver.