The night sky is getting 10% brighter every year. We’re forgetting what darkness feels like
If more cities start regulating outdoor lighting, we humans could make the environment better for all living creatures
TL;DR
- Light pollution is increasing, making the night sky 10% brighter each year.
- The author experienced a truly dark sky in Oregon's International Dark Sky Places, which is becoming rare.
- Artificial light negatively impacts wildlife, disrupting navigation, mating rituals, and migratory patterns.
- Light pollution also affects human health by disrupting circadian rhythms and sleep patterns.
- Examples like Flagstaff, Arizona, demonstrate that implementing outdoor lighting regulations can help preserve darkness.
- Growing concerns exist regarding satellite light pollution, which is not yet subject to environmental reviews.
- Access to darkness is becoming a luxury, but can be restored through better zoning laws and lighting practices.