Star Park Rhön
Between Bavaria, Hesse and Thuringia you'll find the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Rhön. It is known as a star park: A park that presents the natural darkness of the night and thus lets countless stars appear in the sky.
Philosophy of the Star Park
The focus of the star park's philosophy above all is the increasing brightening of the nights. The aim is to distribute information about the protection of the cultural heritage night sky. Above all, the nocturnal flora and fauna in the biosphere reserve should be protected by preserving the natural night landscape so that their life and survival, characterised by a clear alternation of light and dark, can be guaranteed. It is therefore necessary to reduce light pollution. Optimised lighting is not only positive from a nature conservation point of view, but also means a significant saving in terms of energy potential.
Tourism
For the region, the distinction of being one of the first star parks in Germany is an enrichment, as many hobby astronomers and star lovers visit the area to marvel at the extraordinary night sky. Within the area, there are six locations where you can have an undisturbed view of the shining stars: the Weidberg, the Geba Mountain, the Black and Red Moor, the Wasserkuppe and the Black Mountains.
Interest
Every month, interested people can take part in different hikes with experts, from the "Astronomical Star Tour" to the full moon walk. In addition, a book on the Star Park has been published in autumn 2015 with the title "Sternenpark Rhön -Why protecting the night is so good for people and nature".
Other star parks in Germany are the Nationalpark Eifel in North Rhine-Westphalia and the Westhavelland Nature Park in Brandenburg.