In pursuit of its mission to reduce light pollution and improve nocturnal environments worldwide, IDA manages various programs and activities aimed at research, advocacy, and education. As part of its outreach work, IDA recently launched Save Our Stars (SOS), an initiative that seeks to improve the public’s understanding of astronomy while encouraging individuals to promote better lighting practices in their homes and communities.
Participants at SOS events learn about light pollution and light shielding and get the chance to explore the night sky in suburban and rural locations that are less affected by the overabundance of outdoor lighting commonly found in urban areas. Currently, SOS is only operating in the United States, but IDA plans to launch the program in other countries with the help of organizations such as Astronomers Without Borders.