What happens if we turn off the lights?
In July 1977, a massive blackout occurred in New York City which had a very unexpected result – residents saw a rare glimpse of the Milky Way usually obscured by artificial light.
The event underscored how urban lighting erases natural darkness, a growing problem that now prevents one-third of the world’s population, including 80% of North Americans, from seeing the Milky Way.
Beyond diminishing the night sky, excessive artificial lighting disrupts ecosystems. It disorients migratory birds, insects, and trees while threatening nocturnal wildlife, including sea turtles that rely on celestial light for navigation. Human health is also at risk, with research linking light pollution to conditions like sleep disorders, depression, and obesity.
However, unlike other environmental crises, light pollution is relatively easy to fix. Turning off unnecessary lights, using shielded fixtures, and adopting lower-intensity, warm-colored lighting can make a significant impact. Some communities like Crestone, Colorado, have embraced darkness, earning recognition as a Dark Sky community. Organizations like DarkSky International advocate better lighting policies, with initiatives spreading across Europe and beyond.
Despite progress, challenges remain. Urban expansion continues to spread artificial glow, and some experts fear that future generations may never experience truly dark skies. Yet, growing awareness and policy changes offer hope that the stars may one day be visible again to more people worldwide.