Sternenpark Attersee-Traunsee - Austria's 1st Dark Sky Park

Starry night skies are a breathtaking sight that only a few people in Europe can enjoy at home. In bigger cities it is already so bright that a new moon night can no longer be distinguished from a full moon night.

A star park is a protected area in which the nocturnal darkness is viewed as a protected asset and is protected from light pollution (light smog).
Starry night skies are a breathtaking sight that only a few people in Europe can enjoy at home.

After intensive preparations, the Attersee-Traunsee Nature Park submitted the application for certification as an international Dark Sky Park to the IDA (International Darksky Association) in early 2021.
The Attersee-Traunsee Nature Park, with a total area of 106 km², is Austria's 1st Dark Sky Park and the entire Steinbach am Attersee community is a Dark Star Park community since April 2021.
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Artificial light not only prevents an unobstructed view of the stars, but also pollutes the environment and burdens the human biorhythm.
Current research results show that the use of artificial lighting at night is one of the main causes of the dramatic loss of nocturnal and twilight-active organisms. Also, some birds lay their eggs too early in the year or become disoriented and die of exhaustion while circling an eternal sunset.
Even humans suffer from light pollution: the constant nightly twilight disturbs the melatonin balance and thus the day-night rhythm, which can lead to sleep disorders and other health problems.

“Star parks” counteract this as protection zones for the night sky. The night sky, health and wildlife are to be preserved through light management plans and economical and correct lighting. In addition, energy is saved and thus the climate is protected.

Through these measures, those seeking relaxation, stargazers and (hobby) astronomers (outdoors or in the Gahberg observatory in Weyregg) will find a true and fascinating star splendor in the submitted star park on the Attersee. And people, animals and nature continue to experience the natural night sky and the freedom of undisturbed nights.