Teton County in Wyoming has become the first international dark-sky community to be certified.

In recent weeks, the night sky over Wyoming has seen some significant milestones.

In late April, Teton County—home to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Grand Teton National Park, and part of Yellowstone National Park—made history as the first county in the world to be certified DarkSky International has designated Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) as an International Dark Sky Community. Jackson Hole Airport, which was established just 10 days after, has also joined the ranks of DarkSky International. the first airport ever to earn the designation As an International Dark Sky Place (IDSP), a distinction usually reserved for parks, reserves, and remote communities.

When you consider the facts, these “world-first” designations make sense. Teton County is home to a number of small light sources that are a threat to dark skies. low light-impact communities help keep night skies pristine. The town of JacksonKelly, the county’s largest community, is home to just 254 people. Add to that the vast stretches of protected open space—including all of Grand Teton National Park, 40 percent of Yellowstone, parts of three U.S. National Forests, and the 24,700-acre National Elk Refuge—and it’s clear why Teton County is leading the way in night sky conservation.

Similarly, the Jackson Hole Airport is the only commercial airport located within a national park, which incentivizes the airport to take care of the area’s natural resources—dark skies included. “JAC staff spent hundreds of hours updating lighting fixtures and programming in order to adhere to responsible illumination practices,” DarkSky International said in a release. These measures will improve stargazing, and help protect wildlife in Grand Teton National Park, as well as the surrounding areas which rely on a natural nocturnal ecosystem to thrive.

The journey to achieve these dark skies designations began in 2013 Wyoming Stargazing Stargazing sessions are now held every week for the public.

“The stars literally are etched in our DNA,” said Samuel Singer. The executive director of Wyoming Stargazing. a press release. “If ever dark night skies disappear, we would have lost what it means to human.”

Teton County’s and Jackson Hole Airport’s efforts to improve lighting policy not only improves the experience of every visitor that will come to its two national parksBut every creature living within them As well,

Chip Jenkins, Grand Teton National Park Superintendent, said in a press release that the community is committed to providing future generations with access to the beautiful Wyoming skies at night.