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Light pollution facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
ISS-35 Night image of Paris, France
Satellite view of Paris at night (France)

Light pollution happens when there's too much artificial (man-made) light. It's a type of pollution that can cause bad effects. This often means lights are too bright or used when they aren't needed. Many living things, including plants and people, are harmed by light pollution. It also costs a lot of money every year.

What Are the Types of Light Pollution?

Empire State Building Night
This photo of New York City at night shows skyglow, a type of light pollution.

There are five main types of light pollution. Each one describes a different way that too much light can be a problem:

  • Light trespass
  • Over-illumination
  • Clutter
  • Glare
  • Sky glow

These types of light pollution can affect people and the environment in different ways.

Understanding Sky Glow

Sky glow is when the night sky looks bright because of lights from cities below. This glow makes it hard to see stars and planets. It stops birds from finding their way when they migrate. Birds use the moon and stars to navigate. Sky glow also makes it difficult for astronomers to study space.

What is Light Trespass?

Light trespass happens when light from one property shines onto another. For example, a bright street light might shine into your bedroom window. Even though it doesn't directly harm the environment, it's still a form of light pollution. It can be annoying and disturb people.

Dealing with Glare

Glare is when bright lights make it hard to see or cause discomfort. There are two main kinds of glare:

  • Disability glare means you can't see properly because lights are too bright.
  • Discomfort glare means the lights cause pain or irritation to your eyes.

How Light Pollution Affects Us

Light pollution has several negative impacts on both animals and humans.

Effects on Animals

Light pollution causes big problems for animals. Migrating birds rely on the moon and stars to find their way. Bright city lights can confuse them, making them fly off course. Sea turtles also suffer. Baby sea turtles hatch on beaches and naturally move towards the ocean's light. City lights can make them go the wrong way, away from the water. This makes them easy targets for predators.

Effects on Humans

Too much light at night can mess with our sleep. If bright lights shine into your home, it can stop you from getting enough rest. This can lead to headaches and other health issues. Light pollution also affects science. Astronomers need dark skies to study stars and galaxies. When the sky is too bright, it's hard for them to make new discoveries.

Finding Solutions to Light Pollution

Many people and groups are working to reduce light pollution. You can help too!

Working Together: Group Solutions

People started noticing light pollution as a serious issue in the 1960s. In 2002, the Czech Republic passed the world's first law against light pollution. Since then, more people are realizing that light pollution is a big problem. Many groups are now trying to find ways to use light more wisely. They work to protect dark skies for everyone.

What You Can Do: Individual Solutions

You can help reduce light pollution right from your home.

  • Turn off lights when you don't need them.
  • Use curtains or blinds on windows to block out disturbing lights from outside.
  • Choose outdoor lights that point downwards, so light doesn't shine up into the sky.

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See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Contaminación lumínica para niños

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