Light Pollution

Light pollution is when too much light from cities shines up into the sky. This light washes out the night sky. It makes stars hard or even impossible to see. Light pollution also bothers animals and people.

Lost Stars

In big cities, you might only see a few bright stars. Out in the country, you can see thousands of stars and even the Milky Way. Streetlights, car lights, and signs all add up to create a bright glow. This glow rises into the sky and blocks starlight. Many kids today have never seen a truly dark sky.

Fixing the Problem

People are working to reduce light pollution. Cities can use lights that point down instead of up. They can turn off bright lights when they are not needed. Some places are called Dark Sky Parks. In these parks, lights are kept very low so people can enjoy the stars. Helping reduce light pollution also saves energy.

Fun Facts

• More than 80 percent of people in the world live under light-polluted skies.
• Sea turtles get confused by bright beach lights.
• A group called the International Dark-Sky Association helps protect night skies.

Did You Know?

Some birds use stars to help them fly south in winter. Light pollution can make them lose their way.