Skyglow: What It Is, How We Can Reduce It, and Why It Matters
Skyglow is a term many people may not be familiar with, but it affects all of us—especially those who love stargazing and value the beauty of the natural night sky. It refers...
Tagged: astronomy
Whitepaper: The Use of Red Night Lights in Astronomy
Introduction In the world of observational astronomy, clear, dark skies are essential for accurate celestial observations. Light pollution, especially from artificial sources, has long been recognized as a major hindrance to stargazing....
Whitepaper: Astronomical Data and Machine Learning: Revolutionizing Modern Astronomy
The field of astronomy is entering a new era driven by the sheer volume of data generated from modern telescopes, space missions, and astronomical surveys. Machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) are emerging as powerful tools for analyzing this data, enabling faster discoveries and deeper insights. This whitepaper explores how machine learning techniques are applied in astronomy, the challenges of astronomical big data, and the future of data-driven astronomy.
30% of People Can’t See the Milky Way!
It is estimated that around 30% of the global population cannot see the Milky Way from where they live due to light pollution. In highly developed regions, like North America and Europe, that number is a staggering 80%.
Astrotourism: A Journey to the Stars in the UK’s Dark Skies
Astrotourism is a travel trend that invites people to escape city lights and embrace the magic of the cosmos in some of the world’s darkest and most pristine night-sky locations. As light...
The Types of Night Darkness: From Sunset to Sunrise
Nighttime is a fascinating progression through various phases of darkness, each bringing subtle changes in light, atmosphere, and visibility. Observing these changes provides a deeper appreciation of our natural world and highlights...
The Impact of Blue Light at Night and the Benefits of Warm Lighting
Artificial lighting has revolutionized the way we live, but it also comes with hidden costs, particularly when it comes to the health impacts of blue light at night. This whitepaper explores the harmful effects of blue light on human health, the environment, and astronomical observations. It will discuss the science behind blue light exposure, its detrimental impacts on sleep and eye health, and the broader implications for light pollution and wildlife. Finally, this paper highlights the benefits of warm lighting and provides actionable recommendations to mitigate the risks of blue light exposure, both indoors and outdoors.
Responsible Outdoor Lighting: A Whitepaper on the Five Key Principles
Introduction Outdoor lighting plays a significant role in enhancing safety, functionality, and aesthetics in urban and rural environments alike. However, poorly designed or misused lighting can have unintended consequences, such as light...
Whitepaper: The Impact of Light Pollution: Environmental, Animal, and Astronomical Perspectives
Abstract Light pollution, a modern environmental concern, results from excessive and misdirected artificial light that disrupts ecosystems, affects human health, and obscures our view of the night sky. This white paper explores...
Betelgeuse: A Cosmic Giant Nearing Its Spectacular Finale
Betelgeuse, a dazzling red supergiant star in the Orion constellation, has captured the imagination of stargazers and astronomers for centuries. Known for its colossal size, distinctive reddish hue, and unpredictable behavior, Betelgeuse...
Understanding the 11-Year Solar Cycle and Its Link to Increased Auroras in 2024
The dance of vibrant colors across the sky, known as the aurora borealis (in the Northern Hemisphere) and aurora australis (in the Southern Hemisphere), is one of nature’s most stunning displays. These...
Exploring the Summer Triangle
If you’ve ever gazed up at the summer night sky and wondered about the bright stars twinkling above, there’s a good chance you’ve spotted the Summer Triangle. This isn’t a formal constellation,...
