Between April 19th and 28th, we invite all Kaikoura locals aged 8 and up to participate in the 2025 Globe at Night program. This global citizen science initiative helps map the impact of light pollution, providing valuable data to better understand and manage this issue in New Zealand and worldwide.
Why Participate? Light pollution affects our ability to see the stars and disrupts ecosystems. By participating, you contribute to a larger, global effort to measure and combat this growing problem. Your observations will help scientists gather essential data that would be impossible to collect without community support.
All you need is a smart phone (tablet or computer) to measure and submit night sky brightness observations from wherever you are in the district. Readings from locations experiencing light pollution are particularly encouraged.
How to Participate:
- Watch a Quick Tutorial: Check out this 3-minute video (Password: GAN) before you begin or print this 2-pager instruction sheet.
- Pick the Right Time: Go outside on a clear night between April 19th and 28th, more than an hour after sunset (between 8 and 10 PM – can check the right time via this link). Make sure the moon is not up.
- Let Your Eyes Adjust: Spend at least 10 minutes in the dark to improve visibility.
- Submit Your Observations:
- Visit the Globe at Night Report page and ensure you are using the “Nighttime version.”
- If using a smartphone, the app will automatically enter the date, time, and location. Otherwise, manually input this information, including your street address and nearest town.
- Identify a constellation: Orion and the Southern Cross are ideal for observations in New Zealand. Use the Stellarium app if needed.
- Select the star chart that best matches your view of the sky.
- Record cloud cover conditions at the time of your observation.
- Skip the SQM meter reading (only needed for specialized equipment).
- Submit your data!
Why we collect this data
This short video (Password: GAN) explains why we collect this data and how valuable your contribution is.
Over the past 12 years, citizen scientists from 180 countries have contributed 51,000 measurements, revealing a 10% annual increase in light pollution. This means that each year, fewer stars are visible to the naked eye.
Unfortunately, New Zealand has lagged behind in data collection so by contributing your data this year, you can help build a strong dataset for Kaikoura and New Zealand, allowing for year-on-year comparisons and a better understanding of our local night sky conditions.
Join the 2025 Globe at Night campaign and make your observations count. Let’s work together to protect our night skies.
Let’s work together to protect our night skies. Join the 2025 Globe at Night campaign and make your observations count. Thank you
