New law guards dark night skies

CHARLESTOWN, R.I. (AP) -- Charlestown officials have approved a local law restricting the height of lights to help preserve dark night skies.

The town council compromised, voting 4-0 Monday that an original height restriction of 15 feet except over roads could be as high as 20 feet under some circumstances.

The Westerly Sun reports that the new ordinance applies to municipal and commercial properties, not residential sites.

Supporters say the law will help preserve one of the few dark sky areas on the East Coast, helping astronomers at the Frosty Drew Observatory at Charlestown's Ninigret Park.

The International Dark-Sky Association defines a dark sky as allowing observers to see a clearly defined Milky Way, bright stars and star clusters.

Opponents say the ordinance could reduce nighttime use of parks and other outdoor recreational areas.