IAU Commission 50 "Protection of Existing and Potential Observatory Sites".

The goal of Commission 50 is clear from its name.  In addition to protection of sites suitable for radio-astronomy (e.g. the ALMA site on the Cerro Chascon Science Preserve), the Commission has responsibility for protecting sites for optical astronomy.

Part of this IAU environmental activity involves controlling light pollution, and so this Working Group has been set up to focus Commission 50 efforts in this area.

See also the conclusions and proposals of the IAU/COSPAR/UN Special Environment Symposium "Preserving the Astronomical Sky" (Issued by the United Nations Office of Outer Space Affairs), especially recommendation (e) on light pollution:

"Member States should act to control pollution of the sky by light and other causes, for the benefit of energy conservation, the natural environment, night-time safety and comfort and the national economy, as well as science".

Last revised: 30th April, 2004