Seeing Stars

Thoughtfully-designed and environmentally-sustainable policies support the principles of placemaking at Serenbe. There is the obvious importance of preserving 70% of our forests, meadows, and farmland; the utilization of Southface’s EarthCraft certification for homes; and championing the installation of geothermal heating and cooling systems. Then there is the not-so-obvious, such as why it’s easier to see the stars at night in Serenbe - and why that’s good for you AND the environment.

It’s impossible to see the Milky Way in more than ⅔ of the United States, and more than 99% of our population lives in light-polluted areas. In fact, even with high-powered telescopes it can be difficult to view stars, planets, and other astronomical objects because they are outshone by light emitting from Earth.

This isn’t just about aesthetics, though. If you’re coastal, lights left on can interrupt baby turtles trying to find the ocean after birth. Inland residents may have noticed fewer lightning bugs in the summer. And no matter where you live, too much light at night can affect your circadian rhythm causing a variety of health issues from obesity to mental health disorders.

Serenbe works to combat light pollution by enacting our city’s Dark Sky Regulations, based on recommendations from the International Dark Sky Association. All residential and commercial exterior lighting is downward facing, including the street lamps, which keeps light from encroaching across property boundaries. Serenbe also asks residents to use 40-watt bulbs on exterior lights, and all events in the community have a 10:30pm curfew.

The best reason to live here is the life here…or is it the stars? Being able to admire the natural beauty of our world is one of the biggest parts of Serenbe life. So grab a blanket, lay down, and gaze up at the stars. Maybe you’ll spot a shooting star or find your favorite constellation. Just don’t forget to turn off the lights!