This stunning nightscape of Kettle Cove state park by SMA member David Thibeault illustrates the precious dark skies that Maine enjoys. But, those skies are threatened.
Light pollution map of the US northeast.
light pollution harms more than stargazing
Loss of our nighttime skies is a tragedy of the commons.
The numbers are staggering:
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99% of Americans live under light polluted skies
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80% have never seen the Milky Way
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Light pollution is increasing at an estimated 10% every year.
Every photon shot into the sky is wasteful and useless. It was likely created by a fossil fuel plant, a plant that contributes to particulate emission and greenhouse gasses.
Our circadian rhythm is disrupted by light pollution which impacts waking alertness among other problems. Additionally, production of the anti-oxidant melatonin is reduced. Melatonin plays a role in our immune system defense against disease and cancer.
remembering our past and enjoying the view
Light pollution robs us of our shared cultural heritage that can be traced back Millenia. Then there is the simple, yet inspirational and even emotional experience of taking in a truly dark sky. From the comments section of a website that catalogs good dark sky sites:
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I live in a suburb of Chicago and want to know where I can see the milky way. I’m willing to drive 2-4 hrs.
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It’s been a dream for most of my life to see the Milky Way. I live in Atlanta, Georgia. Can you suggest the best date within the next few weeks, place and time to be able to make this dream come true please?
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I live in Long Beach, California, about 15 miles south of Los Angeles, & I have been desperately wanting to see the beauty of the night sky my whole life! I’m willing to drive 2-5 hours to view the night sky, but don’t know where to even start, being that in Southern California, there’s light pollution EVERYWHERE!
Stonehenge at night.
ChatGTP-4o prompted by member Paul Howell
biological impact
Every creature and plant on Earth evolved under dark nighttime skies modulated by the Moon. Light pollution disrupts the delicately evolved patterns of life, harming those creatures and the whole circle of life.
our efforts to reduce light pollution
SMA has been an advocate for sensible outdoor lighting standards for most of our existence as a club.
We have served on town committees charged with converting older streetlights to LEDs in Brunswick and Harpswell; we have testified before the Maine Legislature on light pollution matters; we have spoken to environmental organizations and others on the threat and impact of light pollution and appeared on local radio and TV programs on the topic; we have offered testimony before the Land Use Planning Commission on lighting issues within its jurisdiction over 10.4 million acres of Maine wilderness; we have advocated for improved town zoning ordinances on lighting; we have communicated our concern over the proliferation of low Earth-orbiting satellites to national regulatory bodies; and we preach the gospel of sensible outdoor lighting practices at our star parties.
We could use your help and energy if you share this concern. Come join us!