Birds, insects, mammals, and even humans, evolved a circadian rhythm. The balance between day and night has tipped decidedly toward 24 hour daytime. Below are estimated impacts by the International Dark Sky Association.
Light Pollution News
A bi-monthly podcast that looks at all of the topics in and around our nighttime environment.
Host, Bill McGeeney, is joined by three guests to help walk you through the news around how artificial light at night impacts human culture, crime, and our environment. The path to neighborhood friendly starry night solutions begin with being a more informed you!
Featured Episodes
December 2025: Dark Turns.
Host: Bill McGeeney
Guests:
- Dani Robertson, Author of Creatures of Darkness
- Dr. Amardeep Dugar, Lighting Designer
- Stephane Picard, CEO of Cliff Valley Astronomy
It’s our last official episode of the year! 2026 is right around the corner! But first, we have a lot to talk about. For instance, researchers tracked insects using weather radar in the UK, we’ll let you know what they found! Do modern car headlights actually make you safer? And, it’s not just space mirrors you need to worry about!
With me this episode are lighting designer, Dr. Amardeep Dugar; Cliff Valley Astronomy’s own, Stéphane Picard, and the author of the new book, “Creatures of Darkness,” Dani Robertson!
January 2026: 0.68%
Host: Bill McGeeney
Guests:
- Randy Nelson, Circadian Rhythm Researcher
- Rushil Kukreja, Founder of Princia
- Scott Lind, Electrical Engineer and CEO of Redshift Electric.
We’re kicking off the New Year right, with some Light Pollution News!
Today, I’m joined by Princia’s, Rushil Kukreja; Circadian Rhythm researcher, Randy Nelson; and electrical engineer and advocate, Scott Lind! Be sure to search out for Randy Nelson’s new book, ‘Dark Matters!’
This episode, what did we learn when France decided to turn off its streetlights? Dark Sky Festivals can inspire more than admiration, they can inspire action! And where, exactly, should you put your bed at night?
All this and more, this episode!
January 2026: Knowledge Availability!
Host: Bill McGeeney
Guests:
- Randy Nelson, Circadian Rhythm Researcher
- Rushil Kukreja, Founder of Princia
- Scott Lind, Electrical Engineer and CEO of Redshift Electric.
This episode, I’m joined by Princia’s Rushil Kukreja; Circadian Rhythm researcher, Randy Nelson; and electrical engineer, Scott Lind!
Can light pollution influence levels of CO2? A new study looks at how light affects plants’ ability to process gases. And what proof do we have that birds are affected by light at night? Well, quite a bit, and we have two new studies which appear to show that. Oh, and, did you hear that Palo Alto has a new ordinance, but is it too much?
Helpful Tips!
Solution to Reduce Light Pollution: 10 Easy Ways
When we start thinking about the issue of light pollution, like many other environmental issues, it can seem like an impossible problem to fix. Luckily, light pollution is technically the most easily reversible form of pollution. If you are interested in reducing light pollution, the best way to start is at home. We have 10 easy steps you can follow to inventory your home lighting to decrease the amount of light pollution coming from your home.
How Many Lumens Do You Need for Outdoor Lighting?
When installing or replacing outdoor lights, brightness of the lights (lumens) is an important factor that needs to be considered. The amount of lumens needed will depend on the application. This will range from 12-800 lumens depending on the purpose of the light.
We recommend going on the lower end when possible, this will not only save on energy costs, but it will help to decrease your contribution to light pollution. You can also add additional lights, or go with a brighter light bulb if you find you need a brighter light for your outdoor lighting.
Best Outdoor Lighting Ideas for Your Backyard Landscape.
Many people put a lot of time, money, and effort into their outdoor spaces. Lights are a great way to enjoy your outdoor living space at all times of the day. We believe that less is more when it comes to lighting. Too much lighting and everything will be bathed in a generic glow, the play of light and shadows allows for a much more dramatic effect and will allow certain areas and features to be highlighted. We have some great dark sky friendly lighting options for all your outdoor lighting needs.
Do We Need All Of That Light?
Protect Our Night
Annual Estimated Cost of Exterior Lighting
50B USD
US Department of Energy Estimated Percentage Resulting in Wasted Light
99%
Annual American Consumption of Outdoor Lighting.
308 tWH