Fight Light Pollution
A common concern of all amateur astronomers is the
problem of Light Pollution. Bright and uncontrolled
nighttime lighting practices, especially in our large
cities, have severely reduced our ability to see the sky at
night. While a problem for everyone, light pollution is
especially troubling to amateur astronomers, who can no
longer enjoy using telescopes from their backyards. The
American Association of Amateur Astronomers, as part of
the AAAA mission, wants to spread the word
about light pollution and how to combat it, so that
everyone can continue to be able to enjoy the beauty and
wonder of the night sky. Click
HERE
to Download our Fight Light Pollution Card
in Adobe PDF Format.
Print off copies on 4x6 card stock to give to your friends! |
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Signs of Light Pollution
- Sky Glow - sky is amber or pink on a cloudy
night
- Light Trespass - light shining on other
properties
- Glare - light shining directly into you eyes
Symptoms of Light Pollution
- Energy Wasted
- Light goes up to the universe
- Light is used when not needed
- Light has too much wattage
- Safety and Security Compromised
- Glare is blinding; objects become invisible
- Harsh light causes dark shadows
- Plant, Animal and Human Cycles Disrupted
- Affects reproduction, migration and sleep
- Beauty and Enjoyment of the Night is Disappearing
- Sky is not dark
- Stars are not bright
- Milky Way Galaxy is not visible
- Ages old Heritage of the night sky is lost
Solutions to Light Pollution
- Use lights only when and where necessary
- Shield or recess light bulbs so no glare is visible
- Aim fixtures downward so there is no upward spill of light or
light trespass
- Use low wattage, energy efficient light bulbs
- Do not over-light an area, compared to the background lighting
- Turn off light when not needed
See
IDA Information Sheets
#6,
#40,
#128,
#155 at
www.darksky.org
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How You Can Help
International Dark Sky Association
"To preserve and protect the
nighttime environment and our heritage of dark skies through quality
outdoor lighting."
www.DarkSky.org
Share your Interest and Love of Astronomy with
Us. Join the American Association of Amateur Astronomers
The American Association
of Amateur Astronomers - How to Join the AAAA
Be Part of the Solution:
Stop Light Pollution
with Quality Outdoor Lighting
- Save Energy;
- Improve safety and security;
- Protect plant and animal circadian rhythms;
- Restore the beauty of the night - our heritage!
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