One of the Northern Territory’s iconic attractions, the Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles) Conservation Reserve, has been designated an International Dark Sky Sanctuary, in recognition of the attraction’s exceptional quality of its night skies.
Karlu Karlu, which translates to 'round boulders', has become an internationally recognised symbol of Australia's outback and is a spectacular sight in the morning light or evening sun.
The recent desgination by DarkSky International on 21 August means visitors and campers can expect “exceptional, pristine starry nights”, including the Milky Way galaxy that are increasingly difficult to experience elsewhere.
Visitors planning a trip in 2028 should mark their calendars for the total solar eclipse on 22 July, which Karlu Karlu will fall within the path of.
By day, they can explore the landscapes further along short self-guided walking trails.
“This award is an excellent example of how dark sky conservation can complement the protection of culturally and environmentally significant places. Its exceptionally dark skies, deep cultural connections, and iconic landscape make it a natural fit for International Dark Sky Sanctuary certification. As the first certified site in the region, this creates an exciting opportunity to build broader awareness of dark sky conservation locally,” said Amber Harrison, Dark Sky Places Program manager.
The designation comes after a year-long process, including six months of night-sky readings to measure darkness levels, an audit of artificial lighting and an assessment of future risks to preserving the night sky.