Monday, December 8, 2008
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Monday, August 4, 2008
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Monday, April 28, 2008
Starlight Imperiled
For many of our state parks[1], the Milky Way has been replaced with sky glow, a component of light pollution caused by artificial lights. Light pollution is increasing on average 5%-10% in the US[2] every year. Terrel Gallaway, Missouri State economics professor, recently surveyed 4 national parks[3] and found that almost half of the respondents said that dark skies in the park were an “important” or “very important” reason in making their plans to travel to the park. Over two-thirds said that they had been bothered by sky glow in their home communities. Light pollution is related to energy waste and environmental issues[4].
A simple measure taken today can help ensure sensitive areas are protected for future generations to enjoy. The Kansas Night Sky Protection Act would require the state to monitor and maintain the natural sky above protected areas like state parks that allow camping. Over half the states have either passed or proposed laws to limit light pollution[5].
So, we are left with a simple question – Do we implement good lighting practices now or wait until the last child forgets what a starry night really is?
Thursday, March 13, 2008
KC Star - Letter to the Editor - Missouri Night Sky Protection Act
A night under the stars gives our citizens an escape from daily hassles and an opportunity to contemplate life's greater questions. It has inspired writers and artists throughout history and across cultures. The United Nations La Palma Starlight Declaration mentions: "...the Starlight vista has been and continues to be an inspiration of the mankind, and its contemplation represents an essential element in the development of scientific thoughts in all civilizations." The extinction of this public natural resource is the same as the loss of our Ozark streams or any other ecosystem.
We have a simple choice to make this session, now. Either we let our stars fade away over our state parks or embark on a voyage of discovery like Lewis & Clark and seek the truth about light pollution and the knowledge to remediate it.
http://mcrol.trianglealumni.org Midwest Citizens for Responsible Outdoor Lighting
http://darkskycamping.googlepages.com Boy Scouts
http://www.unesco.org/mab/starlight/doc/shortdeclaration.pdf United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization Starlight Declaration