You know light pollution is getting big when an episode of "The Simpsons" is based on it.
In case you missed the lesson in the episode last Sunday, light pollution comes from city lights shining into the night sky, making it difficult to see the stars.
For most, it matters little. For astronomers, it is the bane of their existence.
The state receives millions because of our perpetually clear skies. In order to keep astronomy as an Arizona industry, we need to begin reversing the damaging effects of light pollution.
A bill recently approved by the state Senate would require cities with a population over 50,000 to install efficient lighting that directs light towards the ground rather than the sky.
Arizona already has a law that requires outdoor lights to be partially shielded. The new bill would increase that requirement, but first the state House needs to pass it.
Two considerations contribute to the necessity for Arizona to control its light pollution. First, Arizona is one of the most important areas of the country for astronomy. Second, Arizona is one of the fastest growing states in the country. And more people means more lights.
According to the Arizona Republic, in the past five years, new astronomy facilities accounted for approximately $100 million in investments for Arizona.
Arizona is considered a premier location for astronomy because of the calm weather and famously low humidity.
Without the new bill and with increasing light pollution, astronomers may begin to move out of state, even out of the country, and take their grant money with them.
No one has to sacrifice safety or convenience when making the world a dimmer place.
Instead of using bright lights that illuminate everything, including every corner of the night sky, cities and businesses can install full cut-off lighting. This lighting shields the upper part of a lamp and causes all light to focus downward, rather than up or sideways.
Full cut-off lighting saves energy, because lower wattage lamps are needed. This, in turn, saves money, because of the lower energy output.
Cities are currently lit more brightly than necessary. According to Harvard's New England Light Pollution Advisory Group, light energy going skyward wastes $2 billion per year.
Parking lots do not need to be lit after businesses are closed and employees have gone home. Rather than leaving lights on all night for security reasons, businesses can use motion-sensor lights.
Except for those around intersections, cities can turn streetlights off late at night. The International Dark Sky Association based in Tucson documents studies indicating that this action can cut back on car accidents caused by glare.
Residents can use lower wattage bulbs for outdoor lighting with the same effect - and they make sure floodlights are directed downward rather than up.
Certainly no place where people might be late at night should sacrifice security. Campus parking lots are a good example of an area that should be well lit, even late. Parking areas around bars and restaurants must remain lit as well.
These areas are the first where full cut-off lighting should be installed. Then they can remain lit, conserve energy, save money, and help stop light pollution.
Light pollution corrupts the work of astronomers researching the universe. As astronomy is big business in Arizona, it's in our best interests to protect their interests.
And, lest we forget, there's a beautiful sky up there. Cutting back on the lights would help the scientists, sure, but we could all enjoy seeing that starry night again.
Kym Levesque is a journalism junior. Reach her at kymberly.levesque@asu.edu.
