Light Pollution: Changing the Situation to Everyone's Advantage

Abstract

There is no question of the need for outdoor lighting to improve the effectiveness of our night-time environment. However, too much of the lighting installed to try to meet this need actually compromises the purpose, and it too often adversely affects the night-time environment, including our view of the stars and of the Universe above us. This urban sky glow severe impacts on all of astronomy, amateur and professional, as well as those of the public who enjoy and profit by the beauty offered by a prime dark sky. In the present paper, I review the issues involved and suggest guidelines to minimize these negative aspects of poor night-time lighting. With good outdoor lighting we all win.