Here is some more info on light pollution, from the Wired magazine web site. The photo below is Chicago at night – no real surprise that if you live in a city like Chicago, you can’t see the Milky Way galaxy, or make out constellations, or much else besides the brightest stars and planets.

Since 2009 is the International Year of Astronomy, expect to hear lots about light pollution and what we can do about it.

I am an amateur astronomer (just a hobbyist), and light pollution is high on my list of awareness issues for everyone. The night sky is a treasured resource that needs to be protected everywhere, not just in our wonderful northern Michigan area.

This issue is becoming more “mainstream”, which is a good thing; along with the Wired article I mention, recently National Geographic had an article concerning the problem. Their article contains this statement that captures it all:

Of all the pollution we face, light pollution is perhaps the most easily remedied.

Simply using different types of outside lights – on buildings, in parking lots, on roads – makes a huge difference, with no reduction in useful light for people, nor diminishing security.

See the Wired article here.

National Geographic: A recent article here, a terrific photo essay here, and an excellent compilation of stories here.

See more news from astronomy magazines Sky and Telescope here and Astronomy here.