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
February 2026: Warm Yellow Richness!
Host: Bill McGeeney
Guests:
- Shweta Kulkarni, AstronEra.
- Josh Dury, Award Winning Photographer
- Jim Webster, Advocate.
We have a great show for you today! Joining me today from AstronEra is Shweta Kulkarni; we have a return visit from one of my favorite nighttime photographers, Mr. Josh Dury; and joining all the way from across the Delaware, Dark Sky New Jersey’s Jim Webster.
This episode – did you hear, Maine has a new responsible lighting law! How are our feelings influenced by light. And…Dark Sky International released a design for a new car…yes, a new car. All this and more, coming right up in this episode of Light Pollution News!
February 2026: Connections.
Host: Bill McGeeney
Guests:
- Shweta Kulkarni, AstronEra.
- Josh Dury, Award Winning Photographer
- Jim Webster, Advocate.
Welcome to Light Pollution News! This episode, we ask, what can looking at SPHEREx images tell you about yourself? And, what!! Satellites can still cause light streaks…even for space telescopes! And, more important news about health and ecology came up this month! You’ll definitely want to listen!
I welcome back AstronEra’s Shweta Kulkarni; acclaimed photographer, Josh Dury; and a true leader in advocacy work, Mr. Jim Webster!
March 2026: Look at Me Lighting!
Host: Bill McGeeney
Guests:
- Remi Boucher, Mont-Megantic.
- Jeremy Evans, Photographer/Filmmaker
- Dashiell Leeds, Conservation Coordinator for the Sierra Club Loma Prieta Chapter.
This episode, I am very excited to have some first time guests…Oh you’re really going to not want to miss this one! I welcome Mont-Megantic’s Remi Boucher, photographer Jeremy Evans, and, the Sierra Club’s, Dashiell Leeds!
Well, you heard last month that Maine has a new ordinance, but it didn’t take long for that message to become convoluted! Wait until you see what our panel has to say on this! We have some health news…and, oh, there’s a new Sphere coming…maybe to a neighborhood near you? Be sure to stay with us for this episode of Light Pollution News!
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