Light Pollution | NE Europe - satellite image of light pollution

2000

NE Europe - satellite image of light pollution

This false colour image from an Italian website gives an idea of light pollution in NE Europe and the UK.
Picture Added on 08 October 2005.

Comments

The astonishing aspect of this image for me is the 'archipelago' of light pollution down the centre of the North Sea caused by UK, Norwegian and Danish oil and gas production platforms. Some of this will be caused by flaring off of unwanted gas, but I know from years of working offshore that these installations are illuminated to a ridiculous level, with no thought given to economic or environmental factors.

Unshielded fluorescent lights are placed on walkways every couple of meters and are generally switched on 24 hours a day.
Added by Garve Scott-Lodge on 08 October 2005.

It is quite amazing to see that the Highlands of Scotland are one of the very few areas left in Western Europe with considerable areas of darkness. In my opinion, this is a natural treasure that should be protected and promoted. If you look closesly, you will see a little bit of blue at the very west coast in the Western Isles. These are streetlights that have been installed in recent years to make the place more "civilised". I think they should think twice before putting in any more of these and market the place as one of the few places in Europe where you can still enjoy natural darkness and stunning night skies.
Added by Maarten de Vries on 10 October 2005.

I would very much like to see this image, and some of the 'natural colour' light pollution satellite photos, re-compiled to show changes. The reason I semi-distrust these is that my area, Ardgay-Bonar Bridge, shows on some as a brightish spot. I find it hard to believe that 1 or 2 thousand homes + streets can create a blotch. My concern is that in these images dark areas like the Highlands overemphasise any leaking light because of the contrast with the very dark surroundings.

Otherwise we must educate home-owners to limit light leaks (which are NOT left on all night!) and keep on top of the Council to always install cut-off exterior lights.
Added by Phil Olson on 01 December 2007.

Phil, you might find this site interesting. It's where the original poster must have 'borrowed' the image.

www.lightpollution.it/dmsp/artbri.html

As the photo and the data gathered was accepted by the Royal Astronomical Society, I'd imagine that the information must be pretty accurate.
Added by Colin on 25 January 2007.

For more information on this subject see the following website.
The Night Sky in the World