OUR STAFF
Meet our staff. Passionate dark sky advocates working together towards bringing darker skies back to Belgium.
FRIEDEL PAS
YANA YAKUSHINA
ERIC GROSEMANS
CLAUDE COTTYN
GUY KINDERMANS
JOOST VERHEYDEN
Meet Claude Cottyn, our Treasurer, a retired force from the Belgian Defence with a new mission: preserving our planet's biodiversity and dark skies. As an official nature guide, Claude's passion lies in unravelling the intricate tapestry of our ecosystems and understanding the profound effects of light pollution on their delicate balance.
Beyond the military realm, Claude has transitioned into a dedicated guardian of nature, working tirelessly to illuminate the threats posed by light pollution. With an unwavering commitment to ecological harmony, he brings a unique perspective to our team. Claude's journey from defence strategist to nature's ally showcases a profound dedication to a brighter, greener future—one where the stars above can shine undimmed by the city lights below.
Beyond the military realm, Claude has transitioned into a dedicated guardian of nature, working tirelessly to illuminate the threats posed by light pollution. With an unwavering commitment to ecological harmony, he brings a unique perspective to our team. Claude's journey from defence strategist to nature's ally showcases a profound dedication to a brighter, greener future—one where the stars above can shine undimmed by the city lights below.
CLAUDE COTTYN
Meet Guy Kindermans, a lifelong stargazer and advocate for the night sky. Raised under the cosmic spell as a member of the 'Jongerenvereniging voor sterrenkunde,' Guy's passion for astronomy flourished. Living in light-polluted Flanders, he witnessed the gradual disappearance of the stars, sparking his journey as a defender of the night.
Throughout the decades, Guy tirelessly championed the cause, from his role in the 'werkgroep lichthinder' and 'Preventie Lichthinder' to his current membership in 'Leve(n)de Nacht.' His mission extends beyond astronomy, as he actively contributes to the municipal eco-council of Aalst, his hometown. Guy Kindermans strives to illuminate the beauty of the night world and safeguard it for generations to come.
Throughout the decades, Guy tirelessly championed the cause, from his role in the 'werkgroep lichthinder' and 'Preventie Lichthinder' to his current membership in 'Leve(n)de Nacht.' His mission extends beyond astronomy, as he actively contributes to the municipal eco-council of Aalst, his hometown. Guy Kindermans strives to illuminate the beauty of the night world and safeguard it for generations to come.
GUY KINDERMANS
Meet Yana Yakushina, a lawyer, researcher, and dark sky advocate. Currently pursuing her Ph.D. at the University of Ghent (Belgium), Yana focuses on developing a legal framework to recognize light pollution as an environmental problem. A beacon in the field, she actively engages in global dark sky protection efforts, attending conferences, podcasts, and workshops while offering consulting services.
Yana works internationally and has contributed to research projects in dark sky protection and space law. Her collaborations span organizations such as the EU Commission, Dark-Sky International, Starlight Foundation, International Astronomical Union, UNOOSA, International Institute of Space Law, and Space Court Foundation Inc.
As a valued member and advisor of NGOs like the International Dark-Sky Association, Starlight Foundation, and the Rule of Law Association, Yana Yakushina illuminates the legal path toward preserving our celestial wonders. Her journey combines legal research with a passion for protecting the night sky, leaving an indelible mark on the realms of law and light pollution mitigation.
Yana works internationally and has contributed to research projects in dark sky protection and space law. Her collaborations span organizations such as the EU Commission, Dark-Sky International, Starlight Foundation, International Astronomical Union, UNOOSA, International Institute of Space Law, and Space Court Foundation Inc.
As a valued member and advisor of NGOs like the International Dark-Sky Association, Starlight Foundation, and the Rule of Law Association, Yana Yakushina illuminates the legal path toward preserving our celestial wonders. Her journey combines legal research with a passion for protecting the night sky, leaving an indelible mark on the realms of law and light pollution mitigation.
YANA YAKUSHINA
ROLAND GADEYNE
FRIEDEL PAS
Meet Friedel, a passionate advocate for the stars and a staunch defender against the encroaching glow of light pollution. Fueled by a passion for astronomy and a deep interest in environmental policy, Friedel took on the challenge of combating light pollution from a young age. Recognizing its impact on the celestial canvas, he delved into solutions that safeguard safety and the broader environment.
From igniting the first demonstrations against light pollution in Kortrijk and Mechelen to co-founding the "Nacht van de Duisternis" in Flanders, Friedel sparked a movement, turning off lights and hosting activities from nature walks to stargazing. His cosmic endeavors extended globally as he organized the second European conference to protect the night sky in Belgium in 2005.
As the founding president of Preventie Lichthinder, Friedel guided municipalities, served as the European Liaison Officer for the IDA, and actively contributed to the Starlight Initiative. An international speaker, his lectures illuminate the fight against light pollution, casting a celestial glow on the dark skies of Flanders and beyond.
From igniting the first demonstrations against light pollution in Kortrijk and Mechelen to co-founding the "Nacht van de Duisternis" in Flanders, Friedel sparked a movement, turning off lights and hosting activities from nature walks to stargazing. His cosmic endeavors extended globally as he organized the second European conference to protect the night sky in Belgium in 2005.
As the founding president of Preventie Lichthinder, Friedel guided municipalities, served as the European Liaison Officer for the IDA, and actively contributed to the Starlight Initiative. An international speaker, his lectures illuminate the fight against light pollution, casting a celestial glow on the dark skies of Flanders and beyond.
JOOST VERHEYDEN
Meet Joost Verheyden, the visionary Founder & Chair of VVS Capella, lighting up the dark sky preservation scene since 1983. In the vast expanse around Hoegaarden, Joost has been a beacon for maintaining darker skies, where stars gleam to magnitude 5.5 and the Milky Way graces the night. His impactful work led to public lighting extinction in 2013, not only benefiting stargazers but also nurturing the nocturnal ecology.
VVS Capella, under Joost's leadership, actively engages with stakeholders, creating awareness and fostering dialogue. In Honsem, a Dark-Sky observation site beckons both the public and amateur astronomers. Joost, a vigilant guardian, monitors sky darkness through the TESS Photometer network, contributing to the Stars4All initiative led by Jaime Zamorano. With Joost Verheyden at the helm, the stars above Hoegaarden continue to sparkle, inviting all to marvel at the wonders of the night sky.
VVS Capella, under Joost's leadership, actively engages with stakeholders, creating awareness and fostering dialogue. In Honsem, a Dark-Sky observation site beckons both the public and amateur astronomers. Joost, a vigilant guardian, monitors sky darkness through the TESS Photometer network, contributing to the Stars4All initiative led by Jaime Zamorano. With Joost Verheyden at the helm, the stars above Hoegaarden continue to sparkle, inviting all to marvel at the wonders of the night sky.
ERIC GROSEMANS
Meet Eric Grosemans, a lifelong admirer of the starry nights who witnessed its fading brilliance. From his youth in Flanders, Belgium, where the Milky Way once graced the night, Eric recognized the encroaching darkness, realizing that complete constellations now elude even his small municipality. The pervasive light pollution, exacerbated by emerging LED lighting, veils the stars and threatens not only the celestial beauty but also the environment, biodiversity, and human well-being.
In response, Eric founded Leve(n)de Nacht vzw, driven by the conviction that future generations deserve the chance to revel in the splendour of starry nights. Eric Grosemans endeavours to reclaim the celestial wonders lost to light pollution, illuminating a path for a brighter, more enchanting night sky.
In response, Eric founded Leve(n)de Nacht vzw, driven by the conviction that future generations deserve the chance to revel in the splendour of starry nights. Eric Grosemans endeavours to reclaim the celestial wonders lost to light pollution, illuminating a path for a brighter, more enchanting night sky.
ROLAND GADEYNE
Meet Roland, an astronomer and celestial guardian dedicated to bringing the wonders of the night sky closer to home. From fostering the growth of the local observatory in Ypres (ACG, Astrolab Iris) to realizing the pivotal role of accessible stargazing, Roland's passion for astronomy took a purposeful turn towards mitigating light pollution over 30 years ago.
As the working group leader for light pollution within the VVS (Vereniging voor Sterrenkunde) and a founding member of Preventie Lichthinder vzw, Roland has been at the forefront of the battle against the diminishing glow of the night sky. A committed member of the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA), he has actively contributed to several European Dark Sky Conferences, weaving together a legacy that illuminates the path toward a brighter, more star-filled future.
As the working group leader for light pollution within the VVS (Vereniging voor Sterrenkunde) and a founding member of Preventie Lichthinder vzw, Roland has been at the forefront of the battle against the diminishing glow of the night sky. A committed member of the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA), he has actively contributed to several European Dark Sky Conferences, weaving together a legacy that illuminates the path toward a brighter, more star-filled future.
Meet Friedel, a passionate advocate for the stars and a staunch defender against the encroaching glow of light pollution. Fueled by a passion for astronomy and a deep interest in environmental policy, Friedel took on the challenge of combating light pollution from a young age. Recognizing its impact on the dark skies, he delved into solutions that safeguard safety and the broader environment.
From igniting the first demonstrations against light pollution in Kortrijk and Mechelen to co-founding the "Nacht van de Duisternis" in Flanders, Friedel sparked a movement, turning off lights and hosting activities from nature walks to stargazing. His cosmic endeavours extended globally as he organized the second European conference to protect the night sky in Belgium in 2005.
As the founding president of Preventie Lichthinder, Friedel guided municipalities, served as the European Liaison Officer for the IDA, and actively contributed to the Starlight Initiative. An international speaker, his lectures illuminate the fight against light pollution, casting a celestial glow on the dark skies of Flanders and beyond.
From igniting the first demonstrations against light pollution in Kortrijk and Mechelen to co-founding the "Nacht van de Duisternis" in Flanders, Friedel sparked a movement, turning off lights and hosting activities from nature walks to stargazing. His cosmic endeavours extended globally as he organized the second European conference to protect the night sky in Belgium in 2005.
As the founding president of Preventie Lichthinder, Friedel guided municipalities, served as the European Liaison Officer for the IDA, and actively contributed to the Starlight Initiative. An international speaker, his lectures illuminate the fight against light pollution, casting a celestial glow on the dark skies of Flanders and beyond.
Meet Yana Yakushina, a lawyer, researcher, and dark sky advocate. Currently pursuing her Ph.D. at the University of Ghent (Belgium), Yana focuses on developing a legal framework to recognize light pollution as an environmental problem. She actively engages in global dark sky protection efforts, attending conferences, podcasts, and workshops while offering consulting services.
Yana works internationally and has contributed to research projects in dark sky protection and space law. Her collaborations span organizations such as the EU Commission, Dark-Sky International, Starlight Foundation, International Astronomical Union, UNOOSA, International Institute of Space Law, and Space Court Foundation Inc.
As a valued member and advisor of NGOs like the International Dark-Sky Association, Starlight Foundation, and the Rule of Law Association, Yana Yakushina illuminates the legal path toward preserving our dark skies. Her journey combines legal research with a passion for protecting the night sky, leaving an indelible mark on the realms of law and space conservation.
Yana works internationally and has contributed to research projects in dark sky protection and space law. Her collaborations span organizations such as the EU Commission, Dark-Sky International, Starlight Foundation, International Astronomical Union, UNOOSA, International Institute of Space Law, and Space Court Foundation Inc.
As a valued member and advisor of NGOs like the International Dark-Sky Association, Starlight Foundation, and the Rule of Law Association, Yana Yakushina illuminates the legal path toward preserving our dark skies. Her journey combines legal research with a passion for protecting the night sky, leaving an indelible mark on the realms of law and space conservation.
Meet Claude Cottyn, our Treasurer, a retired force from the Belgian Defence with a new mission: preserving our planet's biodiversity. As an official nature guide, Claude's passion lies in unravelling the intricate tapestry of our ecosystems and understanding the profound effects of light pollution on their delicate balance.
Beyond the military realm, Claude has transitioned into a dedicated guardian of nature, working tirelessly to illuminate the threats posed by excessive light. With an unwavering commitment to ecological harmony, he brings a unique perspective to our team. Claude's journey from defence strategist to nature's ally showcases a profound dedication to a brighter, greener future—one where the stars above can shine undimmed by the city lights below.
Beyond the military realm, Claude has transitioned into a dedicated guardian of nature, working tirelessly to illuminate the threats posed by excessive light. With an unwavering commitment to ecological harmony, he brings a unique perspective to our team. Claude's journey from defence strategist to nature's ally showcases a profound dedication to a brighter, greener future—one where the stars above can shine undimmed by the city lights below.
Meet Guy Kindermans, a lifelong stargazer and advocate for the night sky. Raised under the cosmic spell as a member of the 'Jongerenvereniging voor sterrenkunde,' Guy's passion for astronomy flourished. Living in light-polluted Flanders, he witnessed the gradual disappearance of the stars, sparking his journey as a defender of the night.
Throughout the decades, Guy tirelessly championed the cause, from his role in the 'werkgroep lichthinder' and 'Preventie Lichthinder' to his current membership in 'Leve(n)de Nacht.' His mission extends beyond astronomy, as he actively contributes to the municipal eco-council of Aalst, his hometown. Guy Kindermans strives to illuminate the beauty of the night world and safeguard it for generations to come.
Throughout the decades, Guy tirelessly championed the cause, from his role in the 'werkgroep lichthinder' and 'Preventie Lichthinder' to his current membership in 'Leve(n)de Nacht.' His mission extends beyond astronomy, as he actively contributes to the municipal eco-council of Aalst, his hometown. Guy Kindermans strives to illuminate the beauty of the night world and safeguard it for generations to come.
Meet Joost Verheyden, the visionary Founder & Chair of VVS Capella, lighting up the dark sky preservation scene since 1983. In the vast expanse around Hoegaarden, Joost has been a beacon for maintaining darker skies, where stars gleam to magnitude 5.5 and the Milky Way graces the night. His impactful work led to public lighting extinction in 2013, not only benefiting stargazers but also nurturing the nocturnal ecology.
VVS Capella, under Joost's leadership, actively engages with stakeholders, creating awareness and fostering dialogue. In Honsem, a Dark-Sky observation site beckons both the public and amateur astronomers. Joost, a vigilant guardian, monitors sky darkness through the TESS Photometer network, contributing to the Stars4All initiative led by Jaime Zamorano. With Joost Verheyden at the helm, the stars above Hoegaarden continue to sparkle, inviting all to marvel at the wonders of the night sky.
VVS Capella, under Joost's leadership, actively engages with stakeholders, creating awareness and fostering dialogue. In Honsem, a Dark-Sky observation site beckons both the public and amateur astronomers. Joost, a vigilant guardian, monitors sky darkness through the TESS Photometer network, contributing to the Stars4All initiative led by Jaime Zamorano. With Joost Verheyden at the helm, the stars above Hoegaarden continue to sparkle, inviting all to marvel at the wonders of the night sky.
Meet Eric Grosemans, a lifelong admirer of the starry tapestry who witnessed its fading brilliance. From his youth in Flanders, Belgium, where the Milky Way once graced the night, Eric recognized the encroaching darkness, realizing that complete constellations now elude even his small municipality. The pervasive light pollution, exacerbated by emerging LED lighting, veils the stars and threatens not only the celestial beauty but also the environment, biodiversity, and human well-being.
In response, Eric founded Leve(n)de Nacht vzw, driven by the conviction that future generations deserve the chance to revel in the splendour of starry nights. A cosmic crusader, Eric Grosemans endeavours to reclaim the celestial wonders lost to light pollution, illuminating a path for a brighter, more enchanting night sky.
In response, Eric founded Leve(n)de Nacht vzw, driven by the conviction that future generations deserve the chance to revel in the splendour of starry nights. A cosmic crusader, Eric Grosemans endeavours to reclaim the celestial wonders lost to light pollution, illuminating a path for a brighter, more enchanting night sky.
Meet Roland, a stalwart astronomer, and a celestial guardian dedicated to bringing the wonders of the night sky closer to home. From fostering the growth of the local observatory in Ypres (ACG, Astrolab Iris) to realizing the pivotal role of accessible stargazing, Roland's passion for astronomy took a purposeful turn towards mitigating light pollution over 30 years ago.
As the working group leader for light pollution within the VVS (Vereniging voor Sterrenkunde) and a founding member of Preventie Lichthinder vzw, Roland has been at the forefront of the battle against the diminishing glow of the night sky. A committed member of the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA), he has actively contributed to several European Dark Sky Conferences, weaving together a legacy that illuminates the path toward a brighter, more star-filled future.
As the working group leader for light pollution within the VVS (Vereniging voor Sterrenkunde) and a founding member of Preventie Lichthinder vzw, Roland has been at the forefront of the battle against the diminishing glow of the night sky. A committed member of the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA), he has actively contributed to several European Dark Sky Conferences, weaving together a legacy that illuminates the path toward a brighter, more star-filled future.
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