Aenos International Dark-Sky Park: The first officially designated area protected from light pollution in Greece

Abstract

The scope of this work is to analyse the methodology used for the official designation of the first International Dark-Sky Park in Greece which was Aenos National Park, designated in May 2023. The methodology was based on the official International Dark-Sky Park requirements of the International Dark-Sky Association with many differentiations due to specific technical challenges and administrative circumstances in Greece. The process included both technical works, light measurements, lighting retrofit as well as administrative, social and publicity activities. From beginning to completion, the designation process lasted more than three years and required hundreds of manhours to be completed. The official designation of Aenos International Dark-Sky Park provides an important opportunity for the protection of the skies of Greece from light pollution both as a case study and inspiration as well as a solid example used to push for the dark sky protection agenda which is part of a sustainable