This is the first half of version of my famous Dark Wars astronomy presentation that I give at Bryce Canyon National Park. This version is "geared" for the tourism industry, encouraging them to help protect natural darkness by supporting astronomy tourism.

2. It cannot be seen, It cannot be felt. Cannot be heard, Cannot be smelt. It lies behind stars, And under hills, And empty holes it fills. It comes first, And follows after. Ends life, And kills laughter. - J.R.R. Tolkien It is a place to hunt, It is a place to hide. A common fear to overcome, Rare beauty protected with pride. It brightens the stars, And endures our Moon, But by our cities laid ruin. Celebrating its function, May make many wealthy, But ignoring its necessity, Will make all unhealthy. - Kevin “The Dark Ranger” Poe Darkness is Dangerous? So darkness is… Essential? What’s Darkness Anyway?

3. Not long ago, in a national park nearby…. By ark Ranger Kevin Poe D P DARK WARS From the national parks, armed with science, mythology & a love for all things nocturnal, warrior poets pushed back against the light. They were called Dark Rangers. And no one knew their names. YEAR VlII A GLOWING MENACE By the 3rd millennium, the reckless use of light nearly vanquished the night. A formidable few rushed to defend the last sanctuaries of natural darkness.

6. Math says… Light’s intensity diminishes at: S 4 п r 2 So darkness is… Very Dispersed light? 1/15 sec refresh rate What’s Darkness Anyway?

7. Mtn. Lion Elk Northern Saw Whet Owl Sphinx Moth W. Chorus Frog Trout Owl Darkness is Noisy! What’s Darkness Anyway?

8. Mtn. Lion Elk Northern Saw Whet Owl Sphinx Moth W. Chorus Frog Trout Moth Owl Frog Fish Lion Darkness is noisy! What’s Darkness Anyway?

12. Darkness is increasingly… Rare! Because darkness is… Fragile What’s Darkness Anyway?