Helping preserve the night skies, the IDA was established more than three decades ago. The organization and its members play a vital role in conserving wildlife, reducing light pollution, updating lighting systems with environmentally friendly solutions in parks, and certifying outdoor lighting fixtures.
Additionally, the association hosts the Dark Sky Places Program. It founded the award-winning program, which focuses on community stewardship of the night sky, in 2001. The program awards five types of designations, ranging from International Dark Sky Reserves to Dark Sky Developments of Distinction. Communities and parks seeking certification must submit an application for review. The IDA approves certification bimonthly for applicants demonstrating community support of dark sky protection. Once certified, a community or park receives marketing support, such as social media promotion and media relations, from the association that ensures their work is publicized. As a result, program participants can expect a boost in tourism and economic activity.