Oregon Outback hosts world's largest dark sky sanctuary

The Oregon Outback International Dark Sky Sanctuary stands as the largest dark sky sanctuary in the world, offering a rare view of the stars amidst increasing global light pollution. While approximately 99% of people in the United States live under light-polluted skies, this remote location in the high desert provides an essential refuge for astronomers and nature enthusiasts. DarkSky International, a non-profit organization, works to preserve these dark skies and certify protected areas worldwide.

In the realm of space exploration, NASA astronauts receive a base salary of approximately $152,258 per year as of 2024, based on U.S. public service pay scales. This compensation covers extensive training and mission preparation. In Europe, the European Space Agency (ESA) provides regulated incomes, with entry-level salaries in Germany ranging between approximately 48,000 and 60,000 euros per year.