Embracing Night begins with Experiencing Night!

Embracing Night begins with Experiencing Night!

Spring and Autumn offer unique opportunities for nighttime activities without heavy layers. As leaves change and birds migrate, it's the perfect time to explore the outdoors at night.

Overcoming Fear of the Dark

Many people fear the dark, a common childhood fear that persists into adulthood. Paraphrasing a guest on my podcast, Light Pollution News, Traci Cardinal sums it up nicely.

When we’re children, our parents buy us nightlights because we’re scared of being in a dark room alone. That pacification doesn’t wholly disappear when we become adults. For many, it’s clearly a terrifying proposition.

Natural Nighttime Activities

A natural nighttime activity is one that isn’t dependent on artificial manmade light. Rather, if light is used at all, it’s used alongside the darkness, rather than vanquishing it. Thanks to thousands of years of evolution, you’ll be amazed at how much your eye can see even when there’s no light at night!

Engage in activities that don’t rely on artificial light. Use red light headlamps to see without disrupting your night vision, though be mindful that it may affect your depth perception – so don’t rush around under red light!

Most people grow up fully relying on their sense of vision. However, in a natural night environment, you’ll be amazed at how sharp your other senses become! Embrace your heightened senses in the dark, listening for owls or bats and feeling the trail's contours.

Ideas for Enjoying Natural Night

• Public Star Parties:  Many astronomy clubs in Pennsylvania host public viewing nights. Learn about new gear and enjoy stargazing through their expert members’ telescopes or binoculars.

  
  

  I’m part of the Delaware Valley Amateur Astronomers and we hold monthly events at Valley Forge National Park. Look up a club close to you for viewing options in your community!

• Hike Under a Full Moon: Leverage the moon's natural light for night hikes. Choose trails with open expanses like fields or meadows to walk by moonlight. Your eyes will adapt, making it easy to navigate. In June, you might even see a firefly show!