NPS Natural Sounds and Night Skies

America's national parks contain many cherished treasures; among them are captivating natural sounds and awe-inspiring night skies. The joy of listening to the quiet symphony of nature or the beauty of seeing the Milky Way stretching overhead have become rare experiences in our lifetimes, but they can still be found in many of our national parks.

The Natural Sounds and Night Skies Division works to restore, maintain, and protect acoustical environments and naturally dark skies throughout the National Park System. We work in partnership with parks and others to increase scientific understanding and inspire public appreciation of the value and character of undiminished soundscapes and star-filled skies.