York is on track to potentially become the UK’s first ‘Dark Sky City’ as part of the Dark Skies movement, which aims to reduce light pollution in urban areas. Experts from York St John University convened recently with astronomers to explore strategies like utilizing warmer, directional street lighting to mitigate excessive artificial light, which adversely affects wildlife and human health. The university is taking steps to make its campus more conducive to dark skies, underscoring the region’s long-standing efforts to minimize light pollution. Dr. Jen Hall from the university emphasized that with over a third of Yorkshire designated as dark sky areas, York has the opportunity to lead the way in responsible urban lighting. Achieving Dark Sky City status could not only enhance the nighttime environment for the community but also serve as a model for cities across the UK.