Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Looking up into a starry night sky on a clear night is a healing experience that cannot be replicated, and a needed respite from a stressful campus. The night sky allows us to see back into eternity, and witness the humbling scale of our own lives on a cosmic level, an experience that many find to be meditative. Taking AST205, a class that heavily emphasizes visual observation of the night sky, I was able to see many incredible sky objects that may no longer be visible due to increasing light pollution in the area. Walking back to my dorm after studying or working is a rare time to reflect, a reflection that is often broken by the harsh campus lighting spilling beyond areas where it is necessary. Princeton is a leader in many environmental fields, including water management and building efficiency, it too should be bold in protecting another natural treasure, the night sky.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Connecting with nature is always super important especially in the middle of a stressful semester, and stargazing has always been a great way for me to destress from my workload and just enjoy a few hours without thinking about much. The observation sessions I did for ast205 were some of the most enjoyable moments of my semester, and I hope that future students can experience the same joy that I did.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Absolutely. As an economics major, I took AST205 at first to fill a requirement. However, shortly after starting classes, I became fascinated with the night sky and our place in the universe. The stargazing and observations that we did for the course were some of the most rewarding learning experiences I’ve ever had. I got to see distant stars, planets in our solar system (like Jupiter and Saturn), and even other galaxies. These hands-on experiences makes classes like AST205 what they are, and it helps students fully grasp the magnitude of what they’re learning. Even walking back from dinner late at night, I love the moments where I get to stare at the night sky and think about my place in our solar system, our galaxy, and our universe. I’ve even had friends remark to me, unprompted, how “cool,” “incredible,” or “beautiful” the night sky looked. There are major educational, spiritual, and mental health benefits to having a great view of the stars in the sky. All Princeton students benefit from living under a beautiful starry sky.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

When I was a student in AST205, the Star Parties were very educational and very fun to attend at night with the class. At my first Star Party I was able to see a phase of the moon and planets in the night sky. I also remember some of these views being obstructed from the football stadium lights at 11pm. When I would stargaze alone for the class, I would set up my telescope at night and draw a rough sketch of the constellations I saw. Growing up in a major city, I rarely saw stars in the sky until I came to Princeton and was taught to observe the sky in my first semester in AST205. I learned to appreciate the beauty of the night sky and saw constellations and bright planets for the first time. AST205 showed me the simplicity and necessity of observing the stars through the hands-on experience of using a telescope to look above. Looking at pictures versus seeing the stars with your own eyes is a very different experience and crucial to this very important course.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Of course, I see a value in Princeton having a starry sky - giving astronomy students (or any student interested in the night sky, for that matter, as observation nights are frequent) a hands-on opportunity to see the planets, stars, and galaxy that we learn about in class is an essential part of the course curriculum.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes! it makes the campus so much prettier and allows us to keep our astro classes!

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

While I was an English major and originally took the course as a distribution requirement, I have very fond memories of AST205 and I am sure I will remember it for a long time. I have found peace in the night sky, and looking for a planet among the stars has become somewhat of a grounding exercise over the years. Being able to point out Jupiter is also just a cool skill. It's comforting to know that no matter where I am -at home in Europe or back on campus - the stars and the Moon are the same. I even had a stargazing date on the golf course 2 years after taking the class, and I still have the Stellarium app downloaded on my phone. None of this would have been possible with a light-polluted Princeton sky.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes. I love seeing a clear night sky, and it makes me very sad when increasing light pollution prohibits viewing a peaceful and beautiful sky

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes, taking Ast205 was a great experience highlighted by nighttime observing of the nights sky.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

I do, as my favorite class I have taken so far was my Planets in the Universe class. An essential piece of the class was nighttime sky observing on campus, which was one of the coolest and most interesting things I have done while at Princeton. I would not have taken nearly as much from this class without this experience, and now find myself looking up at the stars every time I am walking campus at night.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

YES! As a former student in AST observation courses I realize that the only way students can get hands on experience with the night sky is to actually be able to see it! Also, a night sky is just beautiful for its own merit and worth and should not be destroyed.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes! It was a great part of my experience in Princeton Astronomy courses.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes, I do see a value in Princeton having a starry sky. I took the course AST205, where we were tasked to take specific images of the beautiful sky. Professor Bakos would stay with us and make sure that we all properly learned how to manage the scope and camera, and quickly identify certain stars, planets, and other things scattered in our sky. Those were often my favorite days. I will never forget the day he taught my group how to properly read the sky because it’s a skill I use today. I’ve taken many friends outside of Forbes Backyard and enjoyed the beautiful scene of sky without light pollution.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

I do see value, and a lot of it. Viewing the starry sky has become an interest, and even hobby, for many students once given professional instruction by an experienced professor. Being a Princeton student involves having the opportunity to explore different aspects of life inside and outside of academics, including night observations of the stars. Having this opportunity has definitely given me a different outlook on life in general, and a deeper appreciation for the things around me.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

The most unique and fun part of AST 205 was the star parties. It would be such a bummer if Princeton made it impossible to do those in the future.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Absolutely. AST 205 was one of my favorite classes despite knowing nothing going into it. I learned to appreciate looking at the night sky for planets and constellations and still do regularly no matter where I am.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Having a starry sky in Princeton is very important to me; not only did I grow up in Princeton in awe of the sky, it sounds cliche, but looking at the stars at night helped me ground myself in the context of the entire world while also allowing my mind and dreams to reach no bounds. As a student, it is inspiring for me to be able to look up at the sky and reflect on my life, my studies, and what is important to me. I think that recently, it has been increasingly harder to see the stars at night, which has been upsetting since the stars are so important to my mental, academic, and spiritual health.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes I do, my ast 205 is a class I will never forget because I was able to see things outside of this planet. Stars are one thing you cannot build and the one thing that will forever have longevity past our man made buildings and architecture. If Princeton strives to be number one, we need the best view of the stars and not just pretty buildings that only glimmer in the day.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

There is a ton of value in maintaining Princeton's starry sky! AST 205 was one of my favorite classes at Princeton to this day and my favorite assignment of that class was undoubtedly our stargazing assignments where we had to plot the night sky. Princeton is a very special and remote feeling place, and it feels wrong to disturb the feeling of such a tranquil, quiet area of natural beauty with the disappearance of such a vibrant night sky.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes - there is an immense value in being able to learn about the night sky by looking at the stars. As a former student of AST 205, the star parties were an amazing opportunity to work with practical tools, such as telescopes, and to see class concepts manifest themselves in real life.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

One of the first things that I noticed when I moved to Princeton from Arizona was the light pollution. I was lucky enough to grow up in an area where I could watch meteor showers from my backyard and drive 20 minutes to a dark desert with a view of the Milky Way. The many nights that I spent under dark, starry skies is what instilled in me the curiosity that led me to be an astrophysics major (for my first two years, at least). Although I lived in Rocky College, I walked to the opposite end of campus every day to work in my study spot of choice - Forbes Cafe. I loved to study there because, upon completing my work late at night, I could walk out into the Forbes backyard and get a good view of the stars. When my physics classes got unbearably hard, I could reinvigorate my passion and excitement for learning about the cosmos by staring out into the night sky. It's far too easy to get wrapped up in the busyness and stress of the Orange Bubble, and reconnecting with nature and remembering our place in the Universe is an excellent reminder of our humanity. After graduating from Princeton, I accepted a job with the University and searched for off-campus housing. In the end, I chose a house right next to the Billie Johnson Mountain Lakes Nature Preserve so that a view of the night sky and access to nature could be within walking distance. I hope that the University can decrease light pollution on campus so that students are afforded the opportunity to take in the beauty of the night sky. I hope that other communities follow Princeton's lead in this endeavor so that everyone can experience the night sky. My favorite feeling in the world is the electric flash of wonder and awe that comes when you catch a glimpse of a shooting star. I hope that experience is not soon lost due to our irresponsible production of light pollution.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes. Since Princeton is lucky enough to be situated next to a smaller town and not a large city, I have been able to stargaze unlike back home. To me, this is an important facet to protect, seeing as other students can likewise examine what lies beyond our atmosphere.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Princeton is known, among many things, for its beauty, and a starry sky is a very valuable part of that, especially for our many students that come from populated urban areas where they can't see the stars. I remember the first time my friend from Philadelphia went out to the golf course by Forbes and was amazed at all the stars she could finally see. It's truly so transformative to see. It's also a point of cultural heritage that we should work to preserve. Countless mythologies across cultures around the world are based in the sense of magic held by the stars. They should be preserved as well as any historical or cultural artifact dug up from the ground. Lastly, if the aesthetics and the cultural importance of the aesthetics of a starry sky aren't enough — Princeton is first and foremost a research institution. It was my absolute privilege to get to take a class with Prof. Bakos, a leading scholar in astrophysical sciences. It was incredible to have the opportunity to study under someone who is actively discovering the exoplanets and applying the methods we learn about as a leading researcher in this field. Light pollution on campus actively harms not only the undergraduate (& community auditor) experience in this single class (which is already a shame, because the observation nights, or "star parties," were the highlight of the class), but also ruins opportunities for the extremely talented researchers at Princeton's Department of Astrophysical Sciences to properly execute their research, further the collective knowledge of the field, and contribute to the larger world of astrophysical sciences on Princeton's behalf. Surely it is clear that Princeton has no reason besides ignorance, carelessness, and greed to not include the reduction of light pollution on campus in its list of priorities. We were shown in class possible models of easy fixes to campus light pollution, including models of street lighting that are not only better for the sky, but safer and healthier for students. These models emphasize the reduction of glare when walking, increasing visibility for pedestrians at night, as well as the reduction of excess light shining intrusively into students' dorms and harming our sleep patterns. The solutions already exist and have been thought of in detail. Princeton has no excuse to not implement them if they care about their students, their faculty researchers, and their contribution to the preservation of cultural heritage.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes, because of Princeton's particular location it has a unique level of control over having s starry sky that a different campus such as Harvard or Columbia wouldn't have. One of the best parts of campus is how it is surrounded by nature and has plenty of open space.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Apart from the obvious educational value provided by having access to the night sky, the ability to gaze upon the stars has been defining for my Princeton experience. Walking back to my dorm or to a study spot at night and looking up at the sky instills students with a sense of wonder and curiosity. Moreover, the night sky is a key part of Princeton's famously beautiful campus in my eyes.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Princeton prides itself on having a beautiful campus, and at a place with so much rigor, Princeton’s beauty encourages students to spend time outside. And as we saw with the northern lights’ visibility over New Jersey, a beautiful sky gives students something to appreciate together even if we’re on opposite sides of campus.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Absolutely. AST205 was one of my favorite courses because of its outdoor component of setting up a telescope and viewing celestial bodies with fellow classmates. I still look back fondly on those moments. I remember having to go to the Forbes golf course and the boathouse, but how cool would it be to have a centrally located light-free zone to view stars? I think with concerns of global warming and general environmental devastation, having a sanctuary of sorts at the heart of the Princeton campus would send a message to young undergraduates and spark a passion and enduring love for the environment - sky included.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes! AST205 is the best class we have at Princeton, and Gaspar is our best and most accomplished teacher.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

As a student of philosophy, I took seriously Aristotle's exhortation to contemplate the celestial bodies as a part of the good life. So I took astronomy with Professor Bakos, and enjoyed it tremendously. Considering the universe, its stars (and their planets!), is awesome in the most literal sense: it provokes awe, wonderment, and a sublime sense, a humbling perspective, for how small we are. It's a tremendously valuable experience, and one that should be preserved for future generations of Princeton students.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Princeton having a starry sky allows me to take a mental break after long, exhausting days of studying, classes, and meetings. Coming from New York City and coming to Princeton, observing the starry night sky was an unexpected joy I've discovered. I've really appreciated being able to view and learn about the stars and feel a greater sense of perspective and curiosity of the world.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

As a student of AST 205, the clear night sky served as an endless academic and creative inspiration. In order to fully appreciate the concepts learned in class and to conduct observations, a sky replete with visible stars was necessary. Separately, I found that the night sky was conducive to creativity and community, inspiring me often to write and to engage in conversations with others. One weekend, my friends and I spent a night stargazing in order to see a meteor shower, during which we discussed philosophy and history, among many other things.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes definitely, I really enjoyed the opportunity to attend star parties organised by Professor Bakos from the roof of Peyton Hall building. Having the possibility to observe, photograph and discover the sky REGULARLY and FROM THE CAMPUS with a leading Professor who discovered hundreds of exoplanets is a real and unique opportunity given to Princeton students. That is not something other universities based in cities can offer without hours of drive to reach a dark sky. In addition to this, the largest telescopes accessible to students are based in Peyton and cannot be easily moved to a dark sky (they are heavy). The Peyton dome is also hiding has a nice fixed telescope which becomes pretty much unusable when all the buildings and stadium lights are turned on. I also keep good memories of the star parties on the golf course, but it is further away and only the lightest/smallest telescopes could be carried there. I also kept nice memories of star parties held at the Institute of Advance Studies with a wider audience, but the site was unfortunately too bright due to light pollution and we were not able to really see overwhelming fainter objects such as Galaxies.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes! I loved AST205 and the observing sessions were unbelievable. I think that having a great place to observe is integral to drive interest toward the field.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes! AST 205 was the course that exposed me to the beauty of the night sky in our various observations. Although I was an ECO major, this course was one of my most memorable during my time at Princeton. It made me appreciate the STN requirement and the liberal arts curriculum of the U. Since my time in AST, I’ve continued attending a few star observation parties with the AST department and it’s one of the activities that keeps me closer to the U as an alum.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes as it motivates students to do their work, whether in astrophysics or in art.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Absolutely. The ability to observe a starry sky fosters curiosity, wonder, and an appreciation for our place in the universe. It is a unique and irreplaceable aspect of education in astronomy and environmental sustainability. A starry sky connects students and faculty to something much larger than themselves, encouraging scientific inquiry and a deeper respect for the natural world. Beyond academics, it also contributes to the campus’s charm and character, enhancing the experience of everyone who lives, studies, and works here.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes 100%! Some of my fondest memories at Princeton were taking AST205 and getting to learn from Prof. Bakos and his wonderful TA's about the science of hunting exoplanets, and how to identify objects in the night sky. Those memories go far beyond classroom lectures because of the immersive and observational approach of the class. I was a Computer Science major, but I had a passion for Astrophysics, and I felt incredibly lucky to be able to feed that passion in such a rigorous and *practical* environment. Most STEM classes require special equipment and laboratories to get practical experience with the material that we were learning in class. While Astrophysics requires some viewing equipment, we had the privilege of our laboratory being an unlimited resource: the night sky. To date, I still retain a lot of the knowledge I gained in AST205. I am a member of the San Francisco Amateur Astronomers, where a lot of that knowledge comes in handy. I would not have retained that much information or had such a positive experience with the class had it not been for the immersive and observational approach of the Astrophysics department. Protecting Princeton’s starry sky is essential to ensuring future students have the same chance to connect with the universe in a meaningful and transformative way.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes, having the opportunity to stargaze on campus was an absolute joy and highlight of my time as an undergrad. I only had a chance to attend a couple star parties at Peyton Hall but enjoyed the experience immensely, especially seeing celestial bodies that I didn't expect to be able to see. Going out onto the golf course behind Forbes at night to do astrophotography has also remained a core memory of my college years.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Coming from a remote area, I was used to being able to observe the night sky. When much of the campus felt unfamiliar due to the very high level of human structure imposed on the campus’ landscape and the demands of academics, a new social life, and extracurriculars, being able to find a dark, quiet place to look at the stars was an important and accessible way to recover. The golf course in particular was somewhere I often visited for this purpose.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Princeton having a starry sky holds immense value, as it creates opportunities to connect deeply with the universe in ways that are both intellectually and personally transformative. During my senior year, I took AST 205 with Prof. Bakos, which was a highlight of my Princeton experience. The course made me realize how beautiful the night sky is, and to this day, I am captivated by its wonders. That semester, inspired by the Princeton Star Parties in AST 205, my roommates and I planned a trip to Death Valley in Nevada. We ventured into the desert at night, eager to apply what I had learned from Prof. Bakos. It was an absolutely incredible experience—seeing the Milky Way for the first time completely changed my perspective on the scale and vastness of the universe. That moment was awe-inspiring and humbling, and it is my hope that other Princeton students have the opportunity to experience the same kind of wonder and connection through a dark, starry sky.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

There is a ton of value in Princeton having a starry sky. Beyond our work in AST205, Princeton is the only place I've ever lived where you can see the stars routinely. Coming from a city, I really enjoyed the chance to sit and watch the sky, and it is one of my favorite things to do.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

There is absolutely value in Princeton having a starry sky! I have such strong memories of the star parties and observational opportunities that came with AST250. They offered the academic benefit of bringing lectures and problem sets to life — observing the night sky was always an informative and joyful connection of concept to reality. I remember being assigned to a group study of Cygnus, but not feeling a particular enthusiasm for the project until we met together one evening and searched the skies for it. It’s a great loss to think that Cygnus still soars, but is hidden from Princeton’s eyes. And the starry sky is not just good for study; it’s good for the soul! I treasure the communal experience of gathering in the crisp night air, munching coffee beans, and sharing in wonder. So many night hours of a Princeton students’ career are spent looking down, studying under the bright lights of student centers and libraries. We cannot forfeit the joy of rising, walking into the peaceful dark, and looking up to a sky of incomprehensible beauty and complexity.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes, it's a connection to the physical world that often feels fragile in our increasingly digital lives

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Having a beautiful starry sky can encourage students including myself to be more involved in astronomy. Ever since I have taken AST205, I have always looked at the night sky in a different perspective as it leaves wonders and fascinating personal thoughts.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

When my father asked me right before college what I'd miss about being home, the first thing I thought of was "stars." I was really pleasantly surprised that we can see a fair scattering here, and it's wonderful. Not being able to see stars feels like blindness. Or being able to see the aurora last semester, which was so cool.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

I think Princeton is very fortunate amongst top colleges for having a relative ease of access to nature compared to the bustling city. Our campus definitely reflects that value with our architecture being integrated with trees and shrubs. The night sky is another aspect of that nature access -- that can't ordinarily be accessed from the city but can be seen from Princeton. I'm part of our astronomy club, and sometimes it feels like a shame that there feels like a slight limit in places where we can observe. We typically go to the backyard of Forbes, but a dark sky campus might be nice for observing in other areas. It would certainly help our stargazing. I do think there are spaces on campus could be well-illuminated to reflect that our campus is constantly lively and accessible no matter the hour of the day. In others, it is best to leave it dark.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Absolutely. I took AST 205 my senior year and it was one of my favorite classes at Princeton. I vividly remember seeing Saturn and the Pleiades at a viewing party for the class, and it's one of my fondest memories of my time there. We come from the stars, after all.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes, there is something unique about seeing the stars. I have taken a few friend star gazing in a dark sky zone and each one is amazed. I think everyone deserves the chance to see the stars and they are currently inaccessible

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

I love looking up and seeing the stars, especially in places that should probably be dark like Poe Field and the dorm areas. I think lighting some of the pathways are important, but being able to go outside, especially in the warmer months, and relax while looking at the stars is a key part of mine and many of my friends Princeton experiences

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes, I value Princeton having a starry sky, as it is a good way to remain grounded and to remember the role Princeton plays in taking care of the planet as a whole. As Princeton works to become a greener and cleaner campus, there is no reason that this should not apply to light pollution as well as physical pollution. If Princeton University is truly committed to having zero harmful emissions, then they need to consider reducing light pollution. The reason to do so is two-fold. On the one hand, reducing light pollution will reduce emissions, but on the other hand, any light directed into the sky is wasted, and fails to light up where people can actually take advantage of it. As such, if the University makes it lights more efficient and less light polluting, they can use less energy to light up more area on the ground.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Seeing the stars in the sky is such an amazing experience and one that contributes to a happier and more fulfilling life. Having grown up in rural areas, I cannot overstate how calming and enriching looking at the stars in the sky is, especially after a long day. Princeton, as wonderful an environment as it is, can often feel a bit desolate and isolating at night when the only thing visible is an expansive void in the sky.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes, I enjoy stargazing as a study break. I also find that looking at the stars while walking home from the library at night is grounding/calming when I'm stressed.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

I see massive value for this—as someone who regularly stargazes on Poe Field, the light pollution interferes with my stargazing. Additionally, some professors in the astronomy department use telescopes to support coursework, such as in my freshman seminar where Professor Vanderbei used telescopes to show astronomical phenomena. To reduce light pollution would improve astronomical observations, crucial for students studying these endeavors.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

I see great value in Princeton having a starry night sky because it adds to the natural beauty of the campus, allows for greater research to be conducted on campus which will bolster the astrophysics department, and of course will enhance the experience in AST205 greatly! I had such a positive experience in this course, which I intended to take as a 5th course PDF that I would not give much attention to, but after attending the first star party I was absolutely hooked. Never have I taken a course as formative and hands-on as AST205, and it inspired a new hobby of mine, viewing the night sky at Princeton. I hope that Princeton takes preventative measures against light pollution so that I can continue to appreciate the beauty of the night sky at school and so that future students may get a similar experience to mine.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Princeton having a starry sky not only makes it more beautiful, but it makes it a more peaceful place to live. I come from a rural area and being able to see the stars reminds me a lot of home. Furthermore, in AST205, I was fascinated by the celestial bodies that you could see with and without a telescope, and it would be a shame for perspective stargazers to lose that opportunity.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

I love to look at the stars in the sky during my nighttime walks. And, since taking Astronomy 205, I have become even more interested interstellar objects like constellations, planets, and comets. Telescopic observation is not only awe-inducing, it's necessary to advance mine and my classmate's astronomical studies.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes! Growing up, I almost never had a good view of the night sky. Being able to see the stars was one of the highlights of my freshman year when I moved to NJ. I always look up when I'm walking back to my dorm at night, and it's comforting. I often take night sky photos too. I'm strongly considering getting a stargazing app so that I can identify more constellations beyond Orion, Sirius, and occasionally the dippers and the Pleiades. I think having a starry sky is important for hobbyists, naturalists, and any students who appreciate astrology.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes. It is vital for Princeton’s astronomy research.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes! Being able to see stars connects us with the rest of the world and the history of our existence as a species. Stars have been a constant and important aspect of all cultures from ancient times to the modern era. Furthermore, taking a class on astronomy without even being able to see the stars on campus makes appreciating and engaging with what we are learning much more difficult.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

I absolutely think it is vital for students to be able to see the starry night sky at princeton. As a rural student, I find comfort and solace in being able to steer the stars, and since I spend almost 24/7 here between classes, clubs, and dorms, it can feel pretty foreign when even the stars are different from home. Also, they are incredible ways for students to engage with the sciences and history without much experience or costly equipment. Our forebears studied the stars on academic sites, allowing then to give us some of the most valuable insights in human history about science and religion; its incongruous that we at Princeton are unable to do so in the modern day. Also, I plan to take AST205 in the future for the P&L certificate, so I would like to actually be able to take some cool sights away from the telescope nights.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

seeing the night sky is wonderous and relaxing. in such a stressful environment, i think it is imperative to protect that

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Absolutely. The night sky can be gorgeous, and something my friends and I seek out on clearer evenings for star gazing. It would be so nice to be able to see it anywhere on campus, and not have to walk far away elsewhere at night.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

The stars have inspired humanity for thousands of years and we deserve to see them. As someone from a rural area, it is saddening to not see the stars at night at Princeton.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes, I appreciate seeing the stars on my late night walks back to my dorm late at night.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

I see immense value in Princeton having a dark and starry night sky. Some of my best observing experiences have come from Princeton's sky. I often think back to last semester (Fall 2024). One night, during midterms week, I received a call from one of my friends. She was waiting outside for one of her exams when she noticed something. In an excited voice, she asked me "What is going on with the sky?" I quickly raced outside from the Forbes Library. When I looked up, I was amazed. It was the aurora borealis. I explained to her what was happening and then headed to the Forbes backyard. As I arrived, people from all over campus were gathering to enjoy the view. During the stress and chaos of midterms, Princetonians were seemingly given an impromptu stellar study break to ease our minds. Following the initial star gazing, there came an outpour of student social media posts about the unique state of our sky. Those northern lights brought together so many people from separate fields and different interests in order to share a special moment. What could be more valuable and representative of Princeton than that? This experience could have been enhanced and further reaching with an even darker sky. However, what I fear the most is that there will come a time when the sky is so bright we will not have experiences like this at all.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes! Stargazing with my Astrophysics class was one of the highlights of my Princeton experience. I still tell stories about heading to the park late at night to look up at the stars and use a professional telescope. Not to mention, the starry sky adds to the Princeton campus' beauty. I loved walking through campus at night with the stars overhead. It was absolutely magical.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes – spending nights stargazing on Plummer Field, searching for the occasional shooting star as it streaks across the vast expanse of the night sky.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

I came up to Princeton hoping it being away from a big city I would be able to see the night sky. I was thoroughly disappointed when it was no better than the city I used to live in.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes, not just for the sake of the educational benefit it provides for courses like AST 205 but for the romance of campus walks late at night with your future spouse.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

One of my simple pleasures is observing the night sky, which I often do using the help of apps like Stellarium. These technologies help me map out the various constellations (whether back home or on campus), and having a starry sky on campus allows me to make the most of this experience by seeing the patterns on the screen reflected in real life. I am also aware that various student organizations hold regular telescope nights and believe that taking steps towards reducing light pollution as well as any potential astronomical research being led by Princeton.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes definitely! I took AST205 when I was a freshman and it is still one of my favorite classes, despite it having nothing to do with my major or certificates. Some of my best memories were the star parties we had, including waking up at 4 am and running to Peyton Hall to see Jupiter, or doing astrophotography with my group on the Forbes golf course. Even after I was no longer a student of the class I remember going back to join star parties, as it was so fun to see the stars and learn about the constellations.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Incredibly valuable. It romanticizes campus and inspired my studies. It helped with my mental health as I spent a lot of the night awake. Instead of a light gray sky, you could see stars! Star parties and observing on the golf course are some of my favorite memories at Princeton.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

The Princeton night sky is extremely valuable because of the memories I have shared with my friends and roommates out on the fields at night stargazing and creating memories by not only learning about astronomy, but sharing time together doing something that interests us and learning from one another. This remains a possibility if better light fixtures are installed on campus that still light the sidewalks but do not reflect and emit light to the skies.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

I've audited a couple of astrophysics courses with Prof. Bakos in recent years and have acquired a real appreciation for beauty and mystery of the heavens above. If I didn't want to see any stars at night, I could live in NYC. (In fact, I have lived in NYC and always found the lack of stars when I managed to lift my gaze from the dirty sidewalks incredibly depressing.)

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes, I took AST205, and it was one of my most memorable classes because we regularly experienced the night sky in Princeton hands-on. Getting to use a professional telescope and make direct connections between the textbook and the world outside was absolutely the best learning experience of that class. My group regularly met at Poe Field for observations. Also, even if you don't care that there are students who will benefit from having the night sky available for observation, light pollution seriously affects local wildlife, making it more difficult for species to stay within their typical circadian rhythms.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes! We may take it for granted, but it is so valuable that Princetonians can see the beauty of the stars, shining bright on clear nights, right from campus. As a student, looking up at the stars always brought me moments of peace and comfort; it reminded me of being home in my small town. In my sophomore year, I took AST205 seeking a science credit, but found also a number of good friends, a great professor, and exposure to a field of study that was novel to me. Observing the stars and planets--firsthand, right from campus--was my favorite thing about the course, and I likely would not have enrolled in the course if this wasn't part of the curriculum. This course and our star parties gave me an appreciation for the astrophysical sciences, as well as a hands-on introduction to some of the questions and methods used by researchers in this field. As a Politics concentrator, this was a unique and deeply valuable opportunity to broaden my horizons. None of it would have been possible without the ability to observe the stars and planets from campus!

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes! Some of my favorite Princeton memories are when I would go stargazing on Poe field with my friends. I loved walking on the Tow Path and seeing the sky there, too. (And of course, one of my favorite and most interesting courses I took was AST205- it was such a unique and hands-on class, and I have only the best things to say.) I grew up in and now live in a city, and it’s very clear to me that the night sky is such a privilege that many of us take for granted. There is so much to learn from the stars!

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes. I believe we lose something extremely valuable and even necessary when we strip away the possibility of having close experiences with nature and its beauty, in which night skies play a significant part. Being able to have a place on campus where students can have meaningful encounters with nature, like seeing the stars, is special and something that I feel strongly should be protected, especially as it becomes harder and harder to have such moments. I'm thankful that I could get opportunities like that through Professor Bakos's AST205 class when I was a freshman at Princeton. I grew up with almost an obsession to see a night full of stars that has continued to this day, but even though I lived in a suburb, not a city, it was almost impossible to see more than a few stars at a time. Taking AST205 and attending Professor Bakos's stargazing parties was therefore particularly meaningful for me because I had the chance not only to see many stars at once but to assign names to them and understand them a little more, like many people used to. I like to think that Princeton is a university that recognizes and preserves the best parts of mankind's traditions in its students' education while spearheading the developments of our future so that we are truly and fully equipped to be responsible leaders in society; and I truly believe that things like protecting students' ability to connect with nature on campus, which includes maintaining skies with minimal light pollution, is an important aspect of this venture that should not be overlooked.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Absolutely. Stargazing on Poe Field, the towpath, and the golf course was an activity I would frequent through my undergraduate as I always found it calming and therapeutic. I served as an observing assistant for the Astro department and many of the students were vocal about how much they appreciated the class stargazing sessions and department watch parties. Salvaging what little darkness we have should be considered a priority of preservation. It comes hand in hand with the general preservation of Princeton's nearby natural locations, such as the aforementioned towpath and golf course, but also the Institute woods. Access to these kinds of places played a big part in my own decision to choose Princeton over other top schools.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes! Participating in star parties and observations while on campus was a formative part of my experience. I think it would be real shame of Princeton allowed light pollution to ruin this for future generations of students :( I also think Princeton benefits from its quieter, suburban vibe, and I think it would generally erode much of the school's beauty to have an influx of light pollution on campus.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

To me, there's an inherent value in having a starry sky on campus in that it connects us with one of the most beautiful natural wonders that we can all bear witness to almost any night. However, especially with Peyton Hall's observatory, the courses dependent on observing components, and the strong commitment to the sciences and sustainability that Princeton has, it seems like the University ought to take a strong interest in preserving the night sky's visibility. There are many animals and insects that depend on darkness to thrive, and many that use the stars as a way to navigate themselves, so sustainability taking into account then natural ecosystem must include a conscientiousness of light pollution.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes! 1. It's a very memorable component of educational astro courses--students might not remember how to calculate gravitational pulls but everyone remembers what they learned at star parties 2. It's an artistic outlet for photography-inclined students and Princeton values the arts (in a great interdisciplinary way) 3. Star parties were a great way to meet classmates--I made some of my best friends from Princeton at star parties. 4. Alumni come back and want to attend star parties at reunions--it's a big draw 5. It motivates students to appreciate nature and serve humanity by advocating for environmentally friendly policies. 6. Access to the sky is important for research purposes for grad students and faculty alike 7. It attracts undergraduates to pursue graduate education 8. Star parties are a great way for students to connect with faculty and wider Princeton area community members 9. Star parties can serve as an alcohol-free evening activity for students looking for those kinds of activities 10. Students can connect from across different affiliations (res college, eating club, greek life agnostic) on a campus that can be pretty sectioned off

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Princeton’s campus is renowned for its pristine beauty, from the Collegiate Gothic architecture to the peaceful natural landscapes. A critical, yet often overlooked, part of that beauty is the night sky. A truly dark sky connects us to nature, inspires curiosity, and serves as a gateway to scientific discovery. As an astrophysics major at Princeton and now a PhD candidate, I have spent years studying the cosmos, and I know firsthand how rare and valuable a naturally dark sky is. Light pollution has increasingly erased the stars from urban and suburban areas, making places like Princeton—where the Milky Way can still be seen on a clear night—exceptionally precious. Dark skies are not just an aesthetic feature; they support research, education, and sustainability. Princeton’s dedication to intellectual pursuit should extend to preserving its night sky, allowing students, researchers, and the community to continue exploring the universe without unnecessary artificial light drowning out the stars. Thoughtful lighting policies can enhance safety while reducing skyglow, keeping Princeton’s campus a beacon of both knowledge and natural beauty. On a personal note, some of my favorite moments at Princeton were the quiet walks home from the library after long nights of studying. Looking up at the stars was a way to reset, to remind myself of the vastness of the universe beyond my problem sets and exams. That simple, yet profound, connection to the cosmos is something every Princeton student should have the chance to experience.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

As an undergrad at Princeton, I loved walking down to Poe Field to look at the stars, moon or planets. I would rope other members of the track team into standing out with me on cold January nights to watch the ISS fly overhead. My partner (who I met at Princeton) and I bonded over the romance of the night sky. I chose to go to Princeton because it wasn't in a city. It still had a small town feel that was comfortable for me coming from rural Wisconsin. Part of its charm is the ability to quickly get out of the classroom and physically into the subject matter. Aquatic ecology on Lake Carnegie, forest conservation in the Witherspoon Woods and astronomy on the roof of Peyton Hall. Sadly, most parts of campus are already too light polluted to see the sky well. This is a loss to all current and future students, and it would be a tragedy to lose the golf course, last remaining patch of dark sky.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes. I struggled with severe depression to the point of being hospitalized after a suicide attempt my sophomore year. One of the things that kept me sane would be taking walks when I had 3am insomnia to look up at the stars and remind myself that we're all made of old star particles etc etc. Cliched but it did work for me

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Absolutely! The night sky at Princeton was an incredibly valuable part of my experience there, from when I visited as a pre-frosh and experienced the magical beauty of the campus for the first time, to when I walked or biked home late at night and enjoyed the stars above me guiding me back to Forbes. Coming back from trips to NYC, I always felt like the quiet, peacefulness of a dark and starry night at Princeton made the Orange Bubble feel safe and special, a respite from the busy lights and noises of the city. I often star-gazed with friends out on the Forbes lawn, Whitman lawn, and sometimes even one of the quads in Wilson (though the view wasn't as great there). This was crucial to our building deep friendships and meaningful memories. AST205 was also a pivotal course for me during my sophomore spring, when the pressures of academics at Princeton were starting to wear me down. Not only did I learn a lot from Professor Bakos, but our star-gazing parties and observation assignments truly reconnected me with God and the universe in ways that reinvigorated my hope in the future and in my purpose at Princeton. I can honestly say that Princeton's starry sky was essential to my experience and I am deeply disturbed to hear that increasing light pollution may be stripping future students of that wonderful aspect of the university's natural blessings.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Part of the magic of attending and spending time at a historic university such as Princeton is the campus and the views and scenes you get to experience through your every day life. At night, the campus is characterized by low, glowing lights, that illuminate the campus just enough so that you can still see your environment and the surroundings, while also allowing you to look up and into the vast expanse of stars, creating the magic that is Princeton's campus. If this is replaced by overly bright lights, we would be losing a key part of what makes Princeton, Princeton.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Starry Princeton nights have been a highlight of my time on campus, offering a peaceful break from academics. Walking back from the library or chatting with friends under the stars made campus feel even more special. Those moments provided a chance to reflect and appreciate Princeton beyond the classroom.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes!! I took AST205 as part of my first semester at Princeton back in 2016, and it was a joy and a delight to attend 'star parties' with Prof. Bakos. I'd always had an interest in astronomy, but it was a special treat to have Prof. Bakos point out specific phenomena in the night sky, and to get to ask questions and make my own observations.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

As a retired executive with a long-standing love of cosmology, and a passion for lifetime learning, I have audited several classes on astrophysics at Princeton. One of the great appeals of those classes was the opportunity to view the night sky--both with the naked eye and with campus telescopes. Beyond the pure educational benefits, those opportunities to experience firsthand our place in the universe, and to be filled with awe at my jaded old age, were priceless. Seeing those opportunities erode due to light pollution--when simple, no-risk, very low-cost solutions are readily available--is a tragedy, particularly when it is occurring at one of the premier learning institutions in the world.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes, it was so cool to study straight from the roof of our AST building, and it was one of my fondest classroom memories.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

I see a lot of value in allowing students the opportunity to observe the stars. AST 205 was one of my favorite classes at Princeton and looking at the night sky through telescopes was a very unique experience that would be even better if light pollution were limited. Princeton can also be very stressful at times and I found looking at the stars to be a great way to escape and relax.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

As a student of Sanskrit, I spend countless hours reading ancient literature. Stories of seven sages (six of whom ousted their wives), stories of Rama hunting the deer, stories of Dhruva, who could not be moved, and much more. It was not until Professor Bakos showed me the night sky that these became more than stories. The seven sages is the Big Dipper, where one star is a visible binary system. Hence, six sages ousted their wives, the Pleiades (six sisters in Indian astronomy), and one sage kept his wife close to his heart. Rama hunting the deer is the constellation Orion, whose bow points towards Mrgashirsha, the Indian “deer-head” constellation; and Dhruva is the pole-star, ever-firm. These stories were the ways in which the ancient Indian world interpreted the stars, and it is the only way in which we can interact with their world. A visible starry sky at Princeton is valuable to more than just the astronomers. It is important to all those who see it as a part of our heritage, as something that gave our ancestors hope through their dark nights, and as something that continues to inspire us today. At Princeton, this beauty should be protected just like we protect any other educational resource, lest we plunge ourselves into a starless darkness.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

I was a dancer on campus and often times it was at night when we had dance practice. My most vivid memories of walking around campus are at night, with sky filled with stars. Looking up at the starry skies, I found grace, I found beauty, and I found thankfulness that I was walking on this campus. Walking as a African American and Haitian American student, my faith and confidence in myself multiplied after taking AST205 and forming a new relationship with the stars. I’m thankful for my experience in AST205 and nightly walks on campus looking at starry skies.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Oh my gosh YES! So, my freshman year I took this course and attended multiple nighttime viewings, as well as doing my project on the golf course by Forbes. I absolutely loved my experience and really think it helped me integrate into Princeton, reminding me that I belong here just like any where else in the world. Professor Bakos is an amazing person whos incredible passionate about his work and it shows through the course. KEEP PRINCETON CLEAR!

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

In sophomore fall, I was walking back to Forbes with my friends on a clear night. Since this was still during COVID restrictions, there was less activity and light pollution. I looked at the sky and recognized the Pleiades, which I pointed out to my friends. We spent the next twenty minutes stargazing, trying to identify Jupiter, Venus, and Saturn. Even now, I often find myself looking up at the night sky as I walk back to my room, but the construction floodlights and stadium lighting make it increasingly difficult to make out dimmer features. I believe that every student should have the opportunity to look upon a clear sky every night to experience the sense of wonder that space instills.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

I think it is extremely valuable to be able to see a starry night sky at Princeton. For students who want to study astrophysics, regardless of level, being able to observe the night sky is super important. I cannot overstate how special it was to be able to do observations with a telescope or camera. I cannot imagine how much better those observations would be if the light pollution didn't get in the way. Given that our campus isn't situated in a big city like NYC or Boston, I see no reason why we should be able to see so much more of the night sky, like the Milky Way.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

YES!!

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Princeton’s starry sky was one of my favorite parts of the campus experience. I frequently walked around campus long after the sun had gone down and the calming atmosphere created by the night sky helped me reduce my stress levels and relax before bed.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

I see great value in Princeton having a starry sky. I took AST205, which allowed me to engage with star gazing and star photography for the first time. At a time in which I felt quite stressed about being at Princeton and all it demanded, looking at the sky and being reminded of how small I was in comparison felt quite healing. I don't remember why, but years later, I talked about this class and our star photography project on a first date. It turned out that my date was equally interested in space, and, now that we're married, we frequently visit exhibitions and talks on all matters space. Recently, we went to the London Planetarium for a show on the night sky. The presenter asked the audience for names of different constellations, and I was the only one who could identify the Pleiades - a constellation I had photographed as part of a homework assignment. I have not yet stopped bragging about my immense space knowledge to my friends. I was not an astronomy or science major at Princeton, but even now, over 5 years later, this astronomy class was one of my favourite, most impactful classes I took during my studies. And the Princeton night sky was integral to this experience.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

I do see a value in Princeton having a starry sky. During stressful times like the night before an exam or staying late working on a problem set, the stars in the Princeton sky would offer comfort. I’d walk back to my dorm late at night (anywhere between 12 - 2 am) and the skies helped soothe my anxiousness. I’ve never experienced skies as starry as Princetons and there’s been several times where I felt it made my experience at Princeton extremely special.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Absolutely! I came to Princeton from a big city, and even the slight improvement in the night sky visibility was very impressive to me. The stars visible at night add a lot to the natural beauty of Princeton’s campus, something which is sorely needed with all the construction that’s going on! Part of Princeton’s appeal is how it is a quaint, quiet community away from the noisy hustle and bustle of the rest of the world, and being able to look up at the stars each night is a big factor in that.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

I definitely see value in Princeton having a starry sky. Sitting outside the golf course at night looking at the stars is one of the best things you can do to relax through the stresses of Princeton.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes. Taking AST 205, I got the opportunity to look at stars and planets through various telescopes. My favourite place to look at stars was the golf course behind Forbes. The starry night sky has been a quintessential part of all cultures since the first humans evolved in Africa. It is a shame that we in the modern world seems to neglect this. On a night sky not affected by light pollution it is possible to observe the milky way with the naked eye. I want to be able to do this, I want my future kids to be able to look at a starry night sky and its constellations, and I believe it is up to leading institutions like Princeton to take charge and mitigate light pollution.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

I see a profound value in preserving our starry sky here in Princeton. Beyond learning how to observe the sky through Professor Bakos' class, I share the belief that the sky is a part of Nature. I may offer the perspective of one who will not be gathering data from the sky, but who depends, still, on its preservation. The sky is a gift to my life--it speaks, if I may use this metaphor at the risk of mystification--to the consciousness in ways that are vital to our relationship with one another and to human knowledge. To turn one's gaze upward into one of the few darknesses that shares no other benevolence on Earth gives one a perspective to an education which does not, on its own accord, offer you this broadness within the heart. One is pulled from the tunnel vision that occurs in the privacy of learning--and it is only this pull which allows for a real negotiation between a curiosity for the world, its pasts and futures, and finding the words for one's way. I look for Mars wherever I am, I try to remember where the Moon is with respect to the Earth based upon its phase and position in the sky...It was a true blessing, for one who has always admired the work of astronomers from Ptolemy's Almagest to the present day, to see a glimpse of their work, and I hope observing the sky here will never be extinct.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Yes! This is basically my only connection to home (Big Sky Montana). I feel like without being able to see the stars, the aesthic value of living in Princeton is signifigantly diminished.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Not only are starry skies generally lovely, but my many nights of stargazing with the astro department and with friends were some of my favorite on-campus activities. Being able to see starry skies was so beneficial to understanding and enjoying the astro course materials, and is a big advantage Princeton has over other schools located in cities.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

One incredible value associated with the ability to see the stars, is the ability to take AST205. This course was incredible and Professor Bakos' passion for the sky and showing his students the stars, constellations, and planets was a highlight of my Princeton Journey. If we are too shallow to not appreciate the value of simply being able to look up and see the stars, something I never had the privilege to do growing up in NYC, than we should at least respect Professor Bakos' dedication to empowering students and giving other students like me something to remember about their Princeton career.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

yes

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

YES! Not only is it beautiful (and part of our environmental heritage that should be protected), it also allows for so many learning opportunities and the wonder that comes with understanding the stars.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

Absolutely. Taking astrophysics classes at Princeton to this day is a hi-light of the classes I took. Although originally taking them to fulfill my general requirements I fell in love with looking at the sky and even considered minoring in AST. I still have the photos I took from that class to this day!

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

I highly value it. Being able to view the sky is such a privilege once you move to a big city (I’m now in nyc), and I think Princeton should protect it both to be able to study astronomy and for people just to be able to enjoy the stars.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

I absolutely see a value in Princeton having a starry sky. After taking AST205, I gained a new appreciation for the sky. Being able to view and experience the masterpiece above enhanced my curiosity and made me ponder greater questions that connected many different academic and personal concentrations.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

I think that Princeton having a starry sky is part of what makes the campus feel beautiful and like home. Other urban campuses don't have the ability to connect so deeply with the outdoors which gives Princeton a unique edge. AT205 really helped me open my eyes and appreciate the dark sky more than ever before.

Do you see a value in Princeton having a starry sky? Describe your relevant experience.

As an astrophysics major, looking up at the night sky was one of the first things that got me interested in studying it and remains one of the simple pleasures in my life. As a university dedicated to research and outreach, Princeton has a vested interest in getting the community excited about astronomy as it does with any discipline it seeks to spread, advance, or preserve. Community and departmental observing nights are threatened immensely by the unshielded lighting that drowns out the sky.