Step 1
Prepare the assessment
Defining the purpose is the first and most important step: it gives direction, builds a shared understanding with stakeholders and keeps every later step aligned. Answer five questions before collecting any data.
- Who requested or commissioned the assessment?
- Who is sponsoring or supporting it?
- What is the main goal – a baseline, a dark-sky designation, a lighting policy, astrotourism planning?
- How will the information be used?
- Is it a one-off assessment or part of a series?
Map the area
- Prepare a base map – municipal maps, satellite images or a clear hand-drawn plan
- Divide it into zones (urban, suburban, rural) to organise later measurements
- Share it with stakeholders and plan field visits: routes, safety, permissions, equipment
Who to involve
Decision makersMunicipal lighting departments, planning offices, tourism boards
Academia & scienceUniversities, research centres, astronomy clubs
Civil societyNGOs, heritage associations, neighbourhood groups
Active citizensVolunteers measuring sky quality, local advocates
BusinessesTourism operators, hospitality, lighting and energy companies
Protected-area managersNational parks, nature reserves, UNESCO sites
In the template: Table 1 – Purpose definition · Table 2 – Stakeholder identification · Base map