Saturday, July 12, 2025

Lower Lights to Let Stars Illuminate

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In a recent exploration of the night skies over Kuala Selangor, participants discovered the beauty of stargazing away from the distractions of city lights. Organised by Tourism Malaysia and Sahabat Langit Utara, the experience highlighted the stark contrast between light-polluted urban areas and darker regions where the Milky Way can be clearly seen. Using an app called Stellarium, stargazers navigated the constellations, gaining a deeper appreciation for the cosmos. The event underscored the detrimental effects of light pollution, which not only obscures celestial views but also impacts wildlife, as evidenced by a study linking artificial light to disruptions in firefly mating habits. While light pollution remains a concern across Malaysia, efforts are underway, including the Malaysian Space Agency’s forthcoming guidelines aimed at preserving astronomical activities and promoting astrotourism. Locations like rural Kedah and Fraser’s Hill were highlighted as prime spots for stargazing, reminding us of the stars’ historical significance and the need to protect this natural wonder for future generations.

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