Thursday, July 3, 2025

Efforts to Reduce Light Pollution in New Mexico Earn Applause from Stargazers

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In a significant move to combat light pollution and preserve starry night skies, DarkSky International has awarded its first certification to Franklin Mountain Energy, an oil and natural gas developer based in Denver. This recognition stems from the company’s successful lighting retrofits across two sites and a new location in southeastern New Mexico, aimed at reducing skyglow impacting nearby Carlsbad Caverns National Park. Advocates highlight that such measures not only protect the night skies cherished by astronomers but also enhance workplace safety by minimizing glare. The initiative comes amid growing concerns over the rapid increase in artificial lighting, which is brightening the night sky by approximately 10% annually. In response, New Mexico lawmakers are working on updating regulations on outdoor lighting to address this escalating problem, with the National Park Service prioritizing the protection of dark skies at various sacred and remote sites throughout the state.

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