Certified by the DarkSky International darksky.org
PARI is recognized by DarkSky International (formerly International Dark Sky Association (IDA)), as one of the few Dark Sky Parks in North Carolina.
We pride ourselves on maintaining a dark night sky, not only because it allows for ideal astronomical observations, but because preserving the night sky also benefits our health and environment.
Studies have shown that increased light pollution is linked to disruptions in sleep patterns, obesity, diabetes, mental health disorders and various chronic health conditions. Many species in the wild have evolved to rely on uninterrupted periods of darkness at night and need darkness to survive. A naturally dark site reduces the effects of electric lighting on the environment, improves the well-being, health, and safety of our human and wildlife population and decreases energy consumption.
Protecting darkness is key to ecological integrity and sustaining a healthy population and environment. Visit darksky.org to learn more about this initiative.
PARI has several options to help you experience our dark skies.
*Please note that though PARI's skies are exceptionally dark, we are located within the
Appalachian temperate rainforest which means that cloudy skies are common.
PARI cannot guarantee sky quality suitable for optical astronomy or stargazing. Sky conditions can
change quickly and unexpectedly.
Additionally, PARI relies on optical astronomers from partner
organizations to provide guided viewings. They assist when they can, but this limits the availability of
astronomer guided experiences.
Our own staff primarily focuses on daytime education programs, and radio antenna operation for the support
of radio astronomy, and satellite and spacecraft tracking and communications.
We hope one of our options can be a part of your visit to the region. But, if your stay in the Pisgah National Forest doesn't bring you to PARI, there are some other places star-gazers like to stop that are close by.
These overlooks on the Blue Ridge Parkway are also nestled deep in the Pisgah National Forest and far from city lights. Many have ample space to set up a telescope. You can even see PARI from some!
Sometimes inclement weather can cause the Blue Ridge Parkway to close. Check their Parkway Road Conditions page before heading out.
Many of our events offer an option for overnight accommodations. Camping or indoor lodging is available. Outside of these events, overnight stays are subject to site availability and group size.
Another option is the Pisgah National Forest, which has many campgrounds and other types of overnight options available. Many require pre-registration and a fee so make sure to check them out ahead of time.
North Carolina is home to many active, friendly, and welcoming astronomy clubs. We think they are an excellent way to learn about astronomy and the night sky and gain experience using telescopes of many types. You'll meet some interesting and fantastic people too!
Many astronomy clubs have extremely affordable memberships, host regular events, have their own observatories, and have lending libraries of equipment. Some nearby astronomy clubs are:
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