Year 13 student Alan Viles shares his passion for the night sky, and highlights the need to reconnect with nature and minimise light pollution.
H ave you seen our own galaxy, the Milky Way? What about another galaxy? Without light pollution from the southern sky, you can easily see two of our satellite galaxies, the Large and Small Magellanic Clouds, as well as our own galaxy, the Milky Way. More than 80% of the world’s population lives under a light- polluted sky and the Milky Way is hidden from one-third of the world’s population. Light pollution is the result of outdoor lighting that is not properly shielded, allowing light to shine into the eyes and the night sky. Light pollution outshines faint objects like galaxies, faint stars, and nebulae. Dark skies allow us to reconnect with nature and experience the wonders of the night. The unobstructed view of stars, constellations, and celestial events fosters a sense of awe and inspiration, reminding us of our place in the vast universe. Artificial light at night disrupts the natural behaviour and patterns of many species, including birds, insects, and nocturnal animals. By minimising light pollution, we mitigate the negative impacts on their habitats and ecosystems. Dark skies also provide protection for migratory birds, reduce disorientation in marine life, and support the natural reproductive and feeding cycles of various organisms.
Light pollution interferes with circadian rhythms by disturbing the natural light-dark cycle. Excessive artificial light, especially blue light, holds back the release of melatonin and delays sleep. This disruption can lead to sleep disturbances, mood disorders, impaired cognitive function, and an increased risk of certain cancers. Reduced light pollution does not decrease public security as it is possible to have well-lit environments with minimal light pollution. By using efficient lighting fixtures and directing light where it is needed, we can ensure visibility without contributing to light pollution. Excessive outdoor lighting wastes energy and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. A non-profit organisation, the International Dark Sky Association works with local communities to set up dark sky places. These dark sky places take measures to preserve and protect their night sky from light pollution through the regulation of outdoor lighting. Dark sky places promote tourism, attracting visitors from around the world who want to experience the unparalleled beauty of unspoiled night skies. Local communities can develop astro-tourism initiatives, including guided tours, educational programmes, and stargazing events. This, in turn, creates
Alan Viles in front of an aurora on Mount John. Credit: Dark Sky Project
COLLEGE 2023
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