Light pollution and its encroachment are subtle yet pervasive problems that adversely affect our lives in many ways. The Astronomical League stands firm in its position advocating the responsible use of outdoor lighting: The right amount of light, in the right direction, at the right time.
Between September 20 and October 14, the “new media” artist Rafael Lozano-Hemmer unveils his latest work, Open Air, which shines many high powered search lights into the Philadelphia sky between 8 and 11 p.m. While this may be inspiring to some people, it adds to the already light polluted skies in southeast Pennsylvania and western New Jersey. It sends a message that dramatically lighting the night sky is not only tolerated but, in some cases, desirable. It is neither.
There are many viewpoints to the “acceptability” of this event. The League supports rational, civil discourse to illuminate the light pollution facts of Open Air and to educate the public about its negative impact on our lives and the environment.