Jackson Hole Airport: First in the World to Earn Dark Sky Designation

The next time your travel plans include a flight to or from Jackson Hole, Wyoming, consider securing a window seat. The Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) has achieved a remarkable milestone, becoming the first airport in the world to be certified as an International Dark Sky Place. This prestigious designation, awarded earlier this month, recognizes the airport’s commitment to minimizing light pollution and preserving the pristine night sky.

The International Dark Sky Places Program, a voluntary and non-regulatory initiative, celebrates locations that demonstrate exceptional dedication to dark sky conservation. JAC’s journey to achieving this honor involved a comprehensive lighting management plan, which included upgrading and replacing more than 250 exterior light fixtures to reduce light spill from the terminal building.

The impact of this effort extends far beyond enhancing the stargazing experience for travelers. The surrounding Grand Teton National Park benefits significantly, as its already stunning night sky becomes even more vibrant. Chip Jenkins, superintendent of Grand Teton National Park, emphasized the importance of preserving the night sky, stating, "Grand Teton National Park is a place where people can still see planets, stars and be mesmerized by the Milky Way just by stepping outside. A night sky is a resource as valuable and awe-inspiring as seeing a grizzly bear or catching a fish in the Snake River. Protecting the night sky requires effort from all of us and we appreciate how the Jackson Hole Airport has embraced this work."

The airport’s commitment to dark sky preservation also plays a crucial role in protecting local wildlife. Many species rely on the natural darkness of the nocturnal environment to thrive, and minimizing light pollution helps to maintain their habitats and behaviors. JAC is uniquely positioned as the only commercial airport located within a U.S. national park, making its efforts all the more significant.

The lighting management plan developed by the JAC staff aligns with the International Energy Conservation Code and local ordinances, demonstrating a holistic approach to sustainability. The plan also adheres to DarkSky’s five principles for responsible outdoor lighting:

• Useful: Lighting should serve a specific purpose.
• Targeted: Light should be directed only to where it is needed.
• Low Level: Use only the amount of light necessary.
• Controlled: Shielding the lights prevent glare.
• Warm-Colored: Using warmer color temperatures for light fixtures reduces blue light emissions.

While exterior landside and airside lighting is included in the plan, specific regulations apply to the airfield and ramp lighting. These lights must comply with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rules and are exempt from DarkSky requirements to ensure aviation safety.

JAC’s achievement is a testament to the growing awareness of the importance of preserving dark skies and the negative impacts of light pollution. Light pollution not only obscures our view of the stars but also disrupts ecosystems, wastes energy, and can even affect human health.

The certification of Jackson Hole Airport as an International Dark Sky Place is part of a larger movement in the region to protect the night sky. Teton County became the first county certified as an International Dark Sky Community in April, demonstrating a commitment to dark sky preservation at the local government level.

Astrotourism, a growing trend in the travel industry, involves traveling to locations with exceptionally dark skies to observe celestial events and appreciate the beauty of the night sky. As light pollution continues to increase in urban areas, dark sky locations are becoming increasingly valuable for both scientific research and recreational purposes. The designation of JAC as an International Dark Sky Place will undoubtedly attract astrotourists to the Jackson Hole area, boosting the local economy and raising awareness about the importance of dark sky conservation.

The success of JAC in achieving this designation serves as an example for other airports and communities around the world. By implementing responsible lighting practices and embracing dark sky principles, we can all play a role in preserving the beauty of the night sky for future generations. The airport’s achievement underscores the idea that environmental stewardship and economic development can coexist. It demonstrates that airports, often seen as symbols of modernity and progress, can also be leaders in environmental sustainability.

The efforts of Jackson Hole Airport and Teton County highlight the importance of community involvement in dark sky conservation. By working together, residents, businesses, and government agencies can create a culture of awareness and promote responsible lighting practices. The International Dark Sky Places Program provides a framework for communities to develop and implement dark sky initiatives, offering guidance and resources to help them achieve their goals.

The designation of Jackson Hole Airport as the first International Dark Sky Airport is a significant milestone in the effort to combat light pollution and preserve the natural beauty of the night sky. It is a testament to the vision and dedication of the airport staff, the support of the local community, and the growing awareness of the importance of dark sky conservation. As more communities follow Jackson Hole’s example, we can hope to see a future where dark skies are protected and enjoyed by all.

This initiative represents a proactive approach to environmental conservation, demonstrating that even industries like aviation can adopt sustainable practices. The future travelers passing through Jackson Hole Airport will now have the opportunity to witness the splendor of a truly dark sky, an experience that is becoming increasingly rare in our increasingly illuminated world.