How does light pollution affect astronomers? What can be done about it?
Two elements of light pollution affect astronomers most: sky glow and light trespass. Sky glow is a result of fixtures that emit a portion of their light directly upward into the sky where light scatters, creating an orange-yellow glow above a city or town. This light can then interfere with sensitive astronomical instruments designed to capture light from distant galaxies. Light trespass occurs when poorly shielded or poorly aimed fixtures cast light into unwanted areas, such as an observatory, buildings, neighboring property, and homes. This light also interferes with astronomical instruments. To prevent sky glow and light trespass, use fully shielded light fixtures–those that put light only where it is wanted and needed, not wastefully into the sky or annoyingly onto neighboring properties.
