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Why is it important to get away from the light?
Home » Astronomy » Choosing an Observing Site » Why is it important to get away from the light?Anyone who has ever been in the countryside on a dark night can tell you exactly where a city is from the dome of light which hovers around it. Astronomers consider this light pollution. While it is not an environmental hazard, light pollution will overpower all but the brightest of objects in the night sky and organizations such as the International Dark Sky Association are hard at work to keep this natural resource.
Do you remember dark adaptation? If we are exposed to even indirect light, our eyes can never fully dilate enough to appreciate, or even see, faint objects in the skyglow. While it can sometimes be impossible to get away from lights altogether, it is possible to find a shielded area where you are not looking directly into a light—or you can even use a dark piece of cloth draped over your head like an old-time photographer!
Remember to stay as far away from light as possible so your eyes can adjust properly. Even if you cannot escape the lights of the city, you can still enjoy some wonderful views.
Related Choosing an Observing Site Articles
- Introduction
- Why is it important to get away from the light?
- I don't have dark skies. Can I still observe?
- What should I look for in an observing site?
- How do I judge sky conditions from my site?
- Where can I go to find a safe, dark place to observe?