a month ago
- Dark-sky lighting reduces dangerous glare and enhances safety by using only necessary light, countering the misconception that brighter light equals safer conditions.
- It preserves human health by minimizing blue light at night, which can disrupt circadian rhythms and lead to insomnia and other health issues.
- This lighting protects wildlife by maintaining natural day-night cycles, helping to prevent harm to birds, sea turtles, insects, and other nocturnal animals.
- Amber dark-sky lighting provides a more pleasant, restful nighttime environment, resembling sunsets and candlelight, unlike harsh white LEDs.
- It saves energy and reduces costs by cutting wasted outdoor lighting, which accounts for significant energy consumption and financial waste.
- Dark-sky lighting helps restore views of stars and the night sky, combating light pollution that hides celestial bodies from urban areas.
- Practical implementation includes full shielding to direct light downward, using amber colors, dimming, and timers or motion detectors for efficiency.
- Communities like Flagstaff, AZ demonstrate success with dark-sky lighting, allowing residents to see the Milky Way even in populated areas.