A sky quality meter (SQM) was recently installed at Land Trust protected Rimrock Ranch outside of Sisters, Oregon. SQMs measure the brightness of the night sky and provide a measure of both light pollution and natural light at night.

With this data, we will be able to see how Central Oregon's night skies compare to other locations within Oregon and worldwide. We'll also be able to track whether Central Oregon is minimizing human light sources that impact the night sky.

This information will likely be shared with multiple organizations, including the international sky monitoring organization Globe at Night as part of their community science campaign. They have been collecting data worldwide since 2006.

Rimrock Ranch is the frequent location for the Land Trust's Star Parties, where attendees can observe the beauty of Central Oregon's night sky.

Thank you to the Sisters Astronomy Club for purchasing the SQM.