Explore the world's largest 'dark' area in America

An area of ​​more than 1 million hectares in the US has just been recognized as the darkest place to view the night sky, with the hope that this area will expand more than 4 times.

With clear skies and sparse trees, a remote area in the US state of Oregon has long been considered a paradise for stargazers.

Now, according to The Guardian , this area has just been recognized as having the largest dark sky area in the world, offering pristine views of the night sky.

Summer Lake hot springs resort in southern Oregon (USA). (Photo: TRAVEL OREGON).

The remote area in Oregon just received certification this week, becoming one of 19 locations around the world certified by DarkSky International (based in the US).

The area is located in Lake County in southeastern Oregon, a remote area roughly half the size of the state of New Jersey and could expand its recognized area.

According to a statement from DarkSky International, the night sky here is the darkest in the world and the certification helps ensure that the area is protected.

"As Oregon's population and light pollution trends continue to grow, the unparalleled scale and quality of the backcountry's dark skies will become a starry haven for humans and wildlife alike. long term ", according to Mr. Dawn Nilson, the environmental consultant who compiled the application for recognition.

This desert region is one of the oldest known human settlements in North America and is part of an important flyway for migratory birds, as well as important habitat for bighorn sheep. large and sage grouse.

According to the Southern Oregon Tourism Authority, the skies here are often described as "pitch black or velvet black ," thanks to its isolation, as well as the lack of buildings and power lines.

Tourism officials hope that this designation will help promote tourism in the area in a way that benefits local communities. However, they warn visitors to prepare carefully because this area is very remote.