This Week's Sky at a Glance Oct 13, 2009
From now through the end of the month, the zodiacal light ("false dawn") is in good view in the moonless eastern sky before the first sign of actual dawn if you have a very clear sky and no significant light pollution. Look for a huge, narrow pyramid of light extending up from the eastern horizon at an angle along the constellations of the zodiac. (SkyAndTelescope.com)
Reject mining project Oct 11, 2009
This level of aggregate production will make eastern Fresno County an industrial site with increased air pollution, noise and light pollution, traffic problems, cracked. Thanks to Bill McEwen for his continuing columns in opposition to the folly of Cemexs proposal to spend a hundred years strip mining Jesse Morrow Mountain. (Fresno Bee -- Opinion)
Stargazing with the Obamas Oct 9, 2009
Downtown Washington may be awash with light pollution, but the stars came out last night for an evening of stargazing on the White House South Lawn. President Obama and his wife, Michelle, greeted a crowd of about 150 middle-school students who'd come to take part in the first-ever White House Star Party. (SkyAndTelescope.com)
First Family to See First Light Oct 6, 2009
I hope President Obama uses it not only to fire up the next generation of amateur and professional astronomers, but also to raise awareness about light pollution and the energy waste it represents ... "Dear Mr President, I understand all the difficult things that are occurring in the country and world today. Even in the hardest times I know that we as a country have always tried to engage in the positive aspects of life while dealing with the negative. That is why I am writing this letter. I... (SkyAndTelescope.com)
> read more Oct 5, 2009
I hope President Obama uses it not only to fire up the next generation of amateur and professional astronomers, but also to raise awareness about light pollution and the energy waste it represents. So how can you join in the festivities, albeit vicariously. (SkyAndTelescope.com)
On moonless nights, look for the not-so-bright sights among stars Oct 3, 2009
Seeing through the light In fact, even cutting-edge astronomical research can sometimes be done through bright city light pollution, in certain narrow specialites ... Bright planets such as Jupiter, for instance, are unaffected by light pollution. (Boston Globe)
SCC attorney blasts use of 2007 memo to justify light plan Oct 1, 2009
david wrote on Sep 29, 2009 7:47 PM:" I rather have the lights turn off. 1st if a homeowner feels so unsafe without a street light on near their home then they can buy and put up motion detection lights that help solve the problem. The 2nd part is a return of the night sky where one can see not only the shine of the star but the gas clouds out in space. These sights are currently being outshined by light pollution ". Ana Maria Woofolk wrote on Sep 29, 2009 6:25 PM:" I wonder if Mr. Altherr will... (Nogales International, AZ)
Farmton project gets Volusia approval Sep 24, 2009
Members of the Volusia planning commission quizzed the company's representatives and county planning staff on issues including future water use, management of the land to be set aside for wildlife corridors and requirements being included in the plans for such environmentally friendly measures as compliance with dark sky recommendations for lighting fixtures that reduce light pollution in the night sky. On Monday, Edgewater officials and the public will hear more about the plans for the Farmton... (Daytona Beach News Journal -- Local)
October skywatch: Meteor shower Sep 23, 2009
You might see 20 or more meteors an hour if the weather is clear and you're observing away from the glare of urban light pollution. The Orionids seem to radiate out of the constellation Orion, the Hunter, but may appear in just about any part of the sky. (AZCentral -- Travel)
Pollution: Darker side of light Sep 21, 2009
Darker side of light pollution- Pollution-Environment-The Economic Times ... Darker side of light pollution20 Sep 2009, 2241 hrs IST, PTI ... "Light pollution has dangerous consequences and is dramatically increasing. Plant growth is dangerously disrupted. Many organisms' biological clocks are unabalanced," reveals the documentary, which would be screened at the upcoming CMS Vatavaran Environmental films in the capital. (India Times)
Lunalilo Home Road lighting plan unveiled Sep 19, 2009
Residents complained about "overkill" and light pollution, increased energy costs and a glaring traffic corridor in a residential area ... Residents complained about "overkill" and light pollution, increased energy costs and a glaring traffic corridor in a residential area. (Honolulu Star-Bulletin)
Greener pastures: PFGBest brings state-of-the-art 'green' HQ to Cedar Falls (10) Sep 15, 2009
Interior and exterior lighting comply with so-called "dark sky" requirements to minimize light pollution of the night sky. More than 75 percent of construction waste has been diverted from landfills. (Waterloo-Cedar Falls Courier)
Bernie Badger: To the early riser go the celestial sights Sep 11, 2009
The "false dawn" is most visible just before true dawn, but it is so faint that light pollution or the moon can wash it out. It will be visible for a couple of weeks starting Wednesday, when the moon wanes enough to not interfere much. (Florida Today)
Hillside homes among Valley's priciest Sep 10, 2009
At night the dark sky is virtually unaffected by light pollution. "The stars, you don't have to look up to see them," she said. (AZCentral -- Home)
New school year rides in on Great Square of Pegasus Sep 5, 2009
About halfway down it lies a faint star, hidden by the moonlight and Greater Boston s light pollution, that in 1995 was plucked from obscurity to make astronomical history. The star is 51 Pegasi, the first normal star beyond our solar system to show clear evidence of having a planet. (Boston Globe)
Full moon Friday: What you can see Sep 5, 2009
The reason is that a full moon is the No. 1 cause of natural light pollution. Its brilliant light floods the night sky, dimming all the stars and nebulae, causing astronomers to pack away their telescopes and watch television instead. (MSNBC -- Technology)
Raging Fire Threatens Mount Wilson Sep 3, 2009
Includes late updates. While nothing is ever guaranteed in fires like this. (SkyAndTelescope.com)
September skywatch Aug 27, 2009
If you're observing away from the glare of light pollution, you'll see the ghostly band of the Milky Way, our own galaxy, running right through the middle of the Summer Triangle. There are several interesting constellations in the area. (AZCentral -- Travel)
Cities turn off streetlights to save money Aug 27, 2009
Once viewed as helpful safety measures, the lights are increasingly seen by some public officials and researchers as an environmental issue, creating light pollution and burning excess energy. In July, Santa Rosa, Calif. (USA Today)
Planners scrutinize senior housing Aug 26, 2009
To address the issue of light pollution, Izzo requested the developer to submit a lighting plan indicating diffusion of the proposed down-angled street lighting apparatus ... He added that the trees would also serve as an additional buffer against light pollution. (Catskill Daily Mail, NY)
Almost Heaven: Landing the Thirty Meter Telescope Fortifies Mauna Kea's Position as Earth's Eye on the Sky Aug 22, 2009
The level of light pollution was evaluated at all of the candidate sites, but at Mauna Kea today, artificial lights that would otherwise corrupt the summit's pristine skies are not an issue. The lowest point in the sky the TMT will be able to point to is 65 degrees from zenith above the reach of existing light pollution, says Matthias Schoeck, a TMT researcher who led site evaluations. (Scientific American)
Court Decision Stymies Church In Woodbury Aug 21, 2009
In 2006, Cassidy family members complained about the scope of the church's plans, arguing that the expansion would expose their properties to more pedestrian and vehicular traffic, as well as to noise and light pollution. "The Cassidys always felt the church expansion was too big on their small lot. They have also felt the notices were not legally efficient for the public hearing," said attorney Franklin G. Pilicy, who is representing the Cassidy family. (Litchfield County Times, CT)
Sea turtle gets encouraging send-off from Disney guests Aug 20, 2009
Dory s mission is to raise awareness of the effects of light pollution. Since sea turtle hatchlings rely on moonlight to find their way to the ocean, many become disoriented and drawn off-course by artificial light sources. (Winter Garden West Orange Times, FL)
Residents say lights out Aug 19, 2009
Despite the project's use of flat lamps that would shine lights directly onto the roadway, residents are concerned that more street lights will create light pollution ... Despite the project's use of flat lamps that would shine lights directly onto the roadway, residents are concerned that more street lights will create light pollution. (Honolulu Star-Bulletin)
• Sometimes, telescopic treats are found by accident Aug 13, 2009
Because City of Rocks is exceptionally free of light pollution, it affords wonderful opportunities to see targets that are invisible through urban sky glow. I was using the Herrett Center's big 18-inch telescope, which brings in enough light to make faint, subtle targets stand out nicely. (Burley South Idaho Press, ID)
Meteor show reaches dazzling peak Aug 13, 2009
Jo Burgon, head of access and recreation at the Trust, said: "Light pollution from our towns and cities has increased so much in recent years, but head out to the countryside for the perfect place to explore the beauty of the night sky, away from the intrusive glow.". Skywatchers took part in the first "Twitter Meteorwatch". (BBC News -- Science)
Good Times at ALCON 2009 Aug 12, 2009
The talks themselves covered a wide range of subjects, including science, astrophotography, observing, light pollution, education, and public outreach. Many of the hallway and dinner conversations focused on strategies for attracting more young people to amateur astronomy. (SkyAndTelescope.com)
Here Come the Perseids! Aug 11, 2009
But even if you live under moderate light pollution, as most people do, you can catch at least the brightest of the Perseids. This "Old Faithful" of meteor showers reaches its broad maximum around mid-August. (SkyAndTelescope.com)
Homeowners talk trophy homes, wind turbines Aug 9, 2009
"As George Price, superintendent of the Seashore, put it, it is not a question of if we are going to do it, but where we are going to do it, he said. They are looking at the Highland Center in Truro as a possible site, and also at the Marconi Station in Wellfleet. One homeowner asked Hoogeboom for his opinion on the wind turbines the town is talking about putting up near Whitecrest Beach. He was also concerned about floodlights shining up at us in the evening from the turbines. Hoogeboom said... (Harwich Oracle, MA)
Neither bug nor fly, but they sure are pretty Aug 8, 2009
They've been driven away by "light pollution" and the overuse of pesticides, he says. They lose habitat when fields, woods and wetlands are destroyed to make way for houses and shopping centers. (Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, PA)
Black Rock revises plans for mega-church Aug 7, 2009
More trees will be planted in the parking lot and small "New England style" lantern lights with timers are proposed to minimize light pollution. That had also been a concern of neighbors, Samuelson admitted. (Fairfield Minuteman, CT)
Lamb Column: An illuminating stroll down memory lane Aug 6, 2009
Development of fields, woods and wetland habitats, overuse of pesticides, as well as light pollution, have negative impacts on firefly populations, according to the Web site. Mizejewski said it s OK to catch a few fireflies and keep them in a jar with holes poked in the lid for a couple of hours. (La Crosse Tribune, WI)
Looking Up: Counting the stars Aug 1, 2009
Of course the number of stars you actually do see will likely be much less, given hills, trees, passing clouds, moon light, light pollution from manmade sources, time given to allow your eyes to adjust to the darkness and one s eyesight ... Light pollution from towns or the mall is even more disturbing then, and few stars may be seen. (Belmont Citizen Herald, MA)
What does it mean to the community to have the lighted cross back on private property on Black Rock Mountain? Jul 24, 2009
Instead of on clear nights seeing the Outline of the mountain, you catch the light pollution of the cross ... And espescially with everyone going 'Green' these days, a major factor of the USGBC guideline says to reduce and eliminate all light pollution radiating off site. (Clayton Tribune, GA)
Track bidder’s buzz word is ‘community’ Jul 24, 2009
Queens Chronicle - Track bidder’s buzz word is ‘community’. Friday July 24, 2009. (Queens Chronicle, NY)
Fresno man dies in Highway 168 crash Jul 20, 2009
This level of aggregate production will make eastern Fresno County an industrial site with increased air pollution, noise and light pollution, traffic problems, cracked. Valley fails to unite on Hwy. (Fresno Bee -- Local)
Scientists Look Beyond Earth To Understand Auroras Jul 20, 2009
Best conditions: clear night with no moon and far from light pollution. Best season: mid-winter. (Science Daily)
Rain forecast clouds launch of Shuttle Endeavour Jul 11, 2009
On the west side, head for lake or river shorelines with a clear horizon to the east and not much light pollution from cities. More information. (Daytona Beach News Journal)
To Protect Threatened Bat Species, Street Lights Out Jul 7, 2009
The findings highlight the importance of adopting species-specific approaches to understanding the consequences of artificial light pollution, the researchers said, noting that some fast-flying bats are actually attracted to lights because of the bugs that swarm them ... "Yet light pollution is rarely considered in habitat management plans and street lighting is excluded from English and Welsh light pollution legislation. This study provides evidence that light pollution may force bats to use... (Science Daily)
Scorpius and Sagittarius creep low but bright in summer sky Jul 4, 2009
But even through Greater Boston s light pollution, look back again to that row of three stars marking the Scorpion s head. The middle of the three is distinctly the brightest. (Boston Globe)
Astronomy class is for all ages Jun 29, 2009
Kirkham said that the amount of light pollution at John Wood makes sky viewing there difficult but said those attending the class could still have a good experience. "The rings of Saturn have turned toward the earth, so the colors are not as bright as they once were. We usually look at the edge but now we are looking at the flat side," Kirkham said. (Pittsfield Pike Press, IL)
Have you been to the drive-in theater lately? I went there to watch “Terminator” on the screen facing eastward and I could barely make out what was going on. When I brought this up with one of the employees, they told me that ever since the car dealerships opened up on the west side of Imperial Avenue, a lot more light has been shining on the screen. Is there something that can be done about this? It could be hurting business over there and I don’t want to see the drive-in go under. — Hating Light Pollution, Imperial County'>Too bright at drive-in? Jun 24, 2009
Hating Light Pollution, Imperial County - The Imperial Valley Press, the source for news and information for the Imperial County, CA, covers both the Imperial Valley and Mexicali, Baja California. "> ||||||| Wednesday, June 24, 2009 - 2:19:34 am clear - Winds: ESE at 7 mph , Humidity: 51% Bright lights ruining movies at the drive-in Tuesday, June 23, 2009 11:15 PM PDT Submit your Question for ProbeMore Probe Have you been to the drive-in theater lately? I went there to watch Terminator on the... (El Centro Imperial Valley Press, CA)
U.S. Physicians Join Light-Pollution Fight Jun 23, 2009
On June 16, 2009, the American Medical Association (AMA) unanimously to support efforts to control light pollution ... After deliberating, the Reference Committee forwarded the proposal for a floor vote, noting, in part, that "Excessive light pollution comprises an inefficient use of energy and is a public health hazard for drivers, as well as an environmental disruption for several species. In addition, it was acknowledged that several states have light-pollution measures currently enacted and... (SkyAndTelescope.com)
LOOKING UP: Short summer nights, full of wonder Jun 21, 2009
Light pollution has a lot to do with it, since most people live in urban areas ... Light pollution might rob some of your view, but you may see quite a bit in the darkest part of the sky, whhich is usually overhead. (Medfield Press, MA)
* Society calls for lights out hour Jun 20, 2009
Sun Wei-hsin (]s) from the National Taiwan Universitys Institute of Astrophysics, said the nations west coast would often be unable to see many stars because of serious light pollution from so many artificial lights. He said there is an indicator to gauge the severity of the light pollution ... If we can see the Milky Way, we are free from light pollution. (Taipei Times, Taiwan -- Business)
is the U.S. bright ordark? Jun 17, 2009
On looking at it, most people's first reaction is "My goodness, almost half of the U.S. is brilliantly lit." Whether intentional or not, that's a direct result of the colors chosen to represent different levels of light pollution ... It looks as though New Yorkers have to go a long, long way to escape light pollution ... Which of these versions matches your perception of the light pollution around you. (Harper's Magazine)
Alien theories Jun 16, 2009
The power of that possibility and the darkness of the nights here so far from the light pollution of the big cities are what draw scientists and curious tourists alike to this entrancing place. And it is what motivates watchers of the skies to keep, well, watching the skies, obviously. (BBC News -- Americas)
Rexburg will get brighter Jun 6, 2009
Areas that lack street lamps will have them added, and city officials are discussing light design details to reduce energy costs, improve aesthetics and ensure adequate lighting while minimizing light pollution. To bring city lighting to a higher standard, three spacing requirements for different types of lighting zones have been identified. (Rexburg Standard Journal, ID)
Science views: Hubble Space Telescope: our eyes into deep space May 28, 2009
With Spica at the bottom of a Y, you might make out the reclining figure of Virgo holding wheat in her left hand, depending on the degree of light pollution and your imagination. In the ancient myths, Virgo is Persephone, daughter of the goddess of the harvest, Demeter. (Danvers Herald, MA)
Housing project public hearing set next week May 23, 2009
Some of the concerns included impacts the development might have on the neighborhood's quality of life, adding to traffic, noise and light pollution. Even if the zoning board grants a variance, the project will still have to be approved by the planning board. (Auburn Citizen, NY)
Small town resisting prison on tribal land May 21, 2009
She worries about increased traffic, water use and light pollution that would interfere with nearby observatories. "We're losing money if that goes in," her husband said. (AZCentral -- News)
Observatory curator looking for new site May 20, 2009
Stage says that in Schriever, he gets what he calls light pollution from Houma and Thibodaux. Earlier this month, he took a telescope 000037EA to Opelousas where he and astronaut Story Musgrave spoke to Opelousas High School students. (KSLA.com, LA)
Galileo remembered, honored at Astrofest May 15, 2009
For example, Provo residents may be interested in West Mountain observatorys resident astronomer, David Laney, who will lecture on the problem of urban light pollution at 10 a.m., noon and 2 p.m. on Saturday in C295 of the Eyring Science Center. Light pollution is a problem where too much city light obstructs the view of constellations in the night sky, Laney said. (The Daily Universe, UT)
Carthage Ready to Roll for Annual Buggy Fest May 8, 2009
He was a strong supporter of Robbins Mayor Mickey Brown's idea of protecting the northern part of the county from light pollution, making Moore County from Carthage through Robbins into a "Dark Park" to protect views of night sky and bright stars. Lapping was a town commissioner, an ardent Rotarian and an eager supporter of anything he thought was good for Carthage, from the park where his theater will stage shows to benches, picnic shelters, and playgrounds. (The Pilot Newspaper)
Zoning issues for Town Meeting May 8, 2009
Also addressed are lighting standards and the elimination of light pollution. Included in Article 44 are new regulations about landscaping including the size of trees and bushes planted in accordance with landscaping schemes. (Burlington Union, MA)
Mayor: ‘We dropped ball’ on detention facility May 8, 2009
Residents of north Rancho Sahuarita are concerned about possible escapes, unsavory visitors, light pollution, traffic, noise, property values and the loss of security in the quiet neighborhood. Nunez and the consultants will bring maps and drawings to a special town council meeting with residents and town officials at 6 p.m. on May 18. (Green Valley News & Sun, AZ)
NASA rescue mission aims to revive Hubble Telescope May 7, 2009
Its lofty perch also means that Hubble doesn't contend with light pollution the haze of city light and moonlight that can blind ground-based telescopes. That allows Hubble to see very faint objects, including those that are very far away. (USA Today -- Tech)
Housing complex requested in Auburn May 6, 2009
Some who spoke out against the project predicted the units will negatively impact the neighborhood's quality of life, adding to traffic, noise and light pollution. Local resident Tony Siracusa told the board he is worried about the people who would be living there. (Auburn Citizen, NY)
Light Up(R) Creates a Brighter Outlook May 4, 2009
The process uses a blacklight source of illumination, which limits light pollution to the minimum. Differentiating potential. (PR Newswire)
> read more May 2, 2009
It provides a platform for discussing light pollution an issue that should concern everyone ... Also available for printing and handing out is our ever-popular , a clear, simple info sheet on light pollution and how anyone can minimize it. (SkyAndTelescope.com)
Northern exclusive May 2, 2009
There is virtually no light pollution in Chiang Rai, so the views of the night sky are spectacular. Even in the hot months of April and May, the weather is 10 degrees cooler and fresher than in southern Thailand, and so outdoor activities are comfortable and enjoyable, she enthuses. (The Star Online, Malaysia)
Town of Harmony, Florida Recognized by the International Dark Sky Association for Their Dedication to Dark Skies May 1, 2009
In order to qualify for the award, developments must have a comprehensive lighting scheme, exhibit developer and resident commitment to night sky protection, and achieve success in light pollution control. "Harmony, FL exemplifies the Dark Sky Development of Distinction," says Kim Patten, Programs Director at the International Dark Sky Association. (Yahoo News -- Press Releases)
Expansion of Church Is a Woodbury Saga May 1, 2009
In 2006, the Cassidy family, whose members own two adjacent properties, complained about the scope of the church's plans, arguing that the expansion would expose their properties to more pedestrian and vehicular traffic, as well as noise and light pollution. According to the July 11, 2006 minutes of the Zoning Commission, the Rev. Robert Kwiatkowski said there were 3,476 regular parishioners, with 1,047 attending weekly masses and 874 of those attending on Sundays. (Litchfield County Times, CT)
Blinds Chalet Demonstrates How Blinds and Shades Aid Sleep Apr 29, 2009
However, streetlights and light pollution, especially in major cities, can affect one's ability to rest well. In the bedroom, diminish all light in order to establish a nocturnal atmosphere. (Yahoo News -- Press Releases)
Letter: Pro-environment pols? Think again Apr 28, 2009
The protection of bridges has included addition of light pollution on three Charles River bridges. The DCR, Cambridge and Cambridge pols are involved in heartless animal abuse directed at the Charles River white geese. (Cambridge Chronicle, MA)
