•What is this Meetup's purpose?

Can you imagine Chicago with starlight? Are you old enough to remember when Chicago's or neighboring town night skies sparkled with real stars? Sadly, the National Park Service studies predict that by 2025, 90% of people living in the contiguous U.S. will never see starlight even once in their lifetime because of the exponential encroachment of light pollution. Personally, I think that awareness and activism have the power to restore starlight for future generations. What about you?

• Who should join?

Our ideal members have an appreciation of a starry night sky, and have a willingness to help restore starlight for today's and future generations. Each one of us can help in our own way. This will take creativity, collaboration and support for one other.

•Why should members join?

You can make a real difference.

We could be the last generation in the US to witness a starry night sky. The National Park Service studies predict by 2025, 90% of people in the contiguous U.S. will never see a starry night sky even once in their lifetime because of the exponential encroachment of light pollution. The detrimental consequences to the health of humans, ecosystems and environment are well-documented and profoundly sobering.

Brainstorming and working together to spread the word and the solutions can literally result in giving the stars back to all.

• What can members expect out of the group?

We will meet up at various locations throughout the year to listen to talks, brainstorm, and come up with synergistic plans to help get the word out about light pollution in order to restore starlight for future generations providing a healthier environment for people, ecosystems, and the environment. Whenever appropriate, we'll tie-in telescope viewing, or other ways to enjoy the starry or meteor-filled sky.

Then, whoever can, will put those plans into action. Writing a story, doing a radio interview, offering public testimony, offering talks or special events at schools or nature areas, contacting public officials, recruiting more help and mentors.

• Community:

The synergy of sharing; The sharing of synergy is key to our community. Every single one of us has something to offer in our own way. An idea, a song, an experience, a skill, a hope, a dream, a connection--- Together, the possibilities of synergy are endless and unique. We may even be able to restore hidden wonders-- the stars!

We'll meet in person and develop ideas and report progress on our Meetup site. All are welcome. Diversity is essential.

Outdoor activities groups near Merrillville, IN