Whitman Mission National Historic Site - Lightscape / Night Sky

The NPS also considers the night sky as an intrinsic resource that needs protection, just like clean air, clean water and natural quiet. Given its rural location and absence of artificial lights, portions of the park are good places to view the night sky. Park staff has taken various measures to reduce light pollution, including the use of light shields, and recessed lights. Although park hours are for day use only, the local colleges have been allowed permits to conduct astronomy observations from the park. This activity occurs primarily in areas away from exterior lighting, including areas to the south of the visitor center, on top of Memorial Hill, and around the maintenance area. The biggest challenge to a dark night sky is the Washington State Penitentiary five miles east of the park. It is brightly lighted at night, but fortunately it can be screened somewhat by the 100 foot high hill within the park. The cities of Walla Walla and College Place east of Whitman Mission make that part of the sky very bright.