China's Shenzhen releases first local standard for dark sky community

South China's metropolis Shenzhen has rolled out the first local standard on light environments to create a dark sky community.

The standard, according to local authorities, is set to take effect from March, and gives specifications in terms of the quality of the night sky in dark communities, management of the light environment and community management requirements.

The implementation of the standard will improve the light environment of the dark night community, create a high-quality starry sky and Milky Way landscape, and help boost tourism and the night economy, local authorities said.

With more and more people taking an interest in dark sky conservation and light pollution control, China's first International Dark Sky Community was established in Shenzhen last year.

The community, located in Xichong, about 60 km from Shenzhen's downtown, has become a popular place for local residents to get away from the hustle and bustle and enjoy the quiet dark sky and vivid views of the Milky Way.

The standard was jointly launched by the Meteorological Bureau of Shenzhen Municipality, Shenzhen Astronomical Observatory, and other institutes. 

(Cover images via CFP)