Outdoor LED Lighting and The Night Sky

Almost a century ago, the night sky was far more spectacular than how it appears today. So, what could have impaired our view of the universe, partially hiding our beloved milky way? This scenario is created by Light Pollution, the excessive use of artificial light at night which is taking a toll on our environment, health, energy resources, and safety. Scientists say that it can cause serious environmental problems for humans as well as for wildlife, seriously affecting the nocturnal creatures.

What are the common sources of light pollution?

The industrialization in the last 100 years or so is primarily responsible for polluting our night skies. Some known sources of light pollution include commercial properties, streetlights, factories, roadway lighting, building exteriors, and illuminated stadiums. The saddest part is that much of the outdoor lighting used during dark hours is overly bright, improperly shielded and poorly targeted. In some cases, It is not needed at all. A major portion of this unnecessary light, along with the energy used to produce it, is wasted by spilling it into the sky instead of being used in the areas where illumination is really needed.

Components of Light Pollution:

  • Light Trespass – the light falling in unintended areas
  • Skyglow – a bright patch in the night sky right above an inhabited area
  • Light Clutter – groupings of lights that create distraction from obstacles, resulting in accidents
  • Light Glare – too much of brightness resulting in visual discomfort

The Increasing Concern

The concern about light pollution is gradually rising as an increasing number of homeowners, scientists, and environmental groups across the globe are joining hands to take measures to restore the glory of the night sky. For example, in 1980, the ordinary street lamps were replaced with more efficient low-pressure sodium lamps for outdoor lighting California.

The International Dark-sky Association (IDA) has published valuable resources on various ways to alleviate light pollution. Some of them include:

How can you help?

Thankfully, unlike air, water or land pollution, light pollution is completely reversible with some help from every citizen. So, you can begin with minimizing the light emitted from your home at night, which is achieved by adhering to these simple steps:

1. Turn on the lights only when needed.
2. Shield your outdoor lights and use eco-friendly or green outdoor lighting.
3. Before you sleep, draw your blinds to prevent the outside light from entering your home.
4. If home safety worries you, install motion detector lights.
5. Help measure the light pollution in your neighborhood.

Educate your family and friends on how the artificial light at night damages their health and the environment. This brings awareness to this increasing problem and inspires people around you to take the required measures to protect our beautiful night sky.

Outdoor Lighting Design in California and Nevada

If you’d like to learn more about light pollution and lighting design to combat it, give Great Basin Lighting a call today. We have over 12 years of experience in LED outdoor and roadway lighting, along with lighting design experience that helps combat light pollution. If your municipality is looking to upgrade to a more economical lighting design, give us a call at (925) 240-1566 (California) or (775) 333-0900 (Nevada) or contact us online here.