Why Astronomy Needs Low-Pressure Sodium Lighting

Abstract

The damage to the dark-sky resource upon which ground-based astronomical observatories depend is substantial and increasing, even at what are considered premier dark-sky sites. Due to its nearly monochromatic output at the Na I resonance doublet near 589 nm, extensive use of low-pressure sodium (LPS) lighting in areas near astronomical observatories offers the potential preservation and even restoration of dark skies at other wavelengths, as well as minimal impact on the lighting needs of surrounding communities. Flagstaff, Arizona, with extensive use of LPS for general area lighting, has shown that this goal can be achieved.