Light pollution's impact on our ability to see the stars is growing, but there are actions we can take to preserve the celestial wonders above us.
As urbanization increases, the beauty of the night sky fades, and the number of stars visible to the naked eye dwindles. Light pollution’s impact on our ability to see the stars is growing, but there are actions we can take to preserve the celestial wonders above us.
Defending the Night Sky: The Growing Problem of Light Pollution
Legendary astronomer Carl Sagan once remarked that the universe contains more stars than there are grains of sand on Earth. Despite the 100 billion stars estimated to reside in the Milky Way, the human eye can only see a fraction of them due to light pollution. Astrophysicist and UNSW Ph.D. candidate Kirsten Banks explains that in Sydney, only about 125 stars are visible out of the 2,500 we should be able to see. A recent study published in Science revealed that light pollution is increasing at a rate that doubles the brightness of the sky every eight years.
The Global Impact of “Light Glow”
“Light glow,” a form of light pollution caused by artificial lighting seeping into the sky, prevents humans from seeing the stars. Banks explains that light glow is excess light that doesn’t help visibility when walking in the dark. The study, which analyzed over 51,000 citizen science observations of naked-eye stellar visibility from 2011 to 2022, demonstrated a 7% to 10% annual increase in sky brightness. While 68% of the data came from North America and Europe, with some contributions from Australia, Asia, Africa, and South America, Banks emphasizes that light pollution is a problem everywhere, including Australia.
Astronomy: The Accessible Science
Banks believes that everyone should have the opportunity to gaze at the stars because astronomy is one of the most accessible sciences. No special equipment is required—just looking up at the night sky is enough. Losing the stars to light pollution means losing a whole science for people. Additionally, various cultures worldwide have deep connections to the stars and night sky, with over 250 Indigenous groups in Australia alone using the stars for the past 65,000 years. Losing sight of the stars in bright cities leads to the loss of culturally significant stories and lessons.
Turning the Tide on Light Pollution
Unlike many other forms of pollution, light pollution is reversible. Banks suggests that creating directional streetlights that focus light downward can help reduce light pollution. Additionally, changing the color of lights to an amber/orange hue can minimize light glow. While some local measures have been implemented, more can be done. Increased awareness of light pollution has led to policies that attempt to control it in places like Coonabarabran, which has strict guidelines to preserve the night sky due to the nearby observatory.
Everyone Can Make a Difference
Each person can play a part in combating light pollution by turning off unnecessary lights, such as bright floodlights on patios or in backyards. Simple, everyday actions can contribute to preserving the splendor of the night sky for generations to come.
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