Global Astronomy Faces Increased Risk from Growing Light Pollution, Rising 10% Annually

Astronomers are increasingly challenged by light pollution, even in remote observatories, which are vital for their research. Data shows that night sky brightness is rising nearly 10% annually in some areas, significantly impairing the quality of astronomical observations. Facilities like the Mauna Kea Observatories in Hawaii are witnessing this decline firsthand due to nearby industrial developments. The problem is global, with studies indicating that urban expansion and LED lighting are doubling light pollution every few decades. Efforts to combat this issue include advocating for stricter lighting regulations and innovative technologies, but experts warn that these are only temporary solutions. As light pollution threatens not only professional research but also public engagement with the cosmos, it calls for a broad societal shift toward preserving dark skies for future generations.

Global Astronomy Faces Increased Risk from Growing Light Pollution, Rising 10% Annually

Zach Bryan Posts Video of Burning Barstool Sports Flag Following Brianna Chickenfry Split

Compact LED Light for Macro Photography from SmallRig

Meteor Shower Illuminates Oregon’s Night Sky

Chuck Swoboda Joins the Board of Directors at Benchmark