Wednesday, February 9, 2011

Types of Light Pollution

There are different types of light pollution?

Yes, as a matter of fact, there are many different types of light pollution.  These different types of light pollution include skyglow, light clutter, light trepass, over-illumination, and glare. All types are seen in various places all over the world and are very common.

Skyglow: The illumination of the night sky and parts of it. Much of this light is artificial and can be seen as a glow from miles away. Skyglow is commonly around large cities or towns but can also be around illuminated small things such as, large buildings like malls, etc. Skyglow is usually seen as a dome of light around the town or city giving off the light.



Light trepass: Light trepass is when unwanted light enters one's property. This can occur from a  person using an outdoor light at night which disrupts their neighbor. Some cities in the United States are creating guidelines to reduce light trepass.



Over-illumination: The excessive use of light. The unnecessary use of light can be from improper design of lightbulbs, "Daylight lighting"- a method demanded by some citizens to reduce crimes during the day, and indirect lighting techniques.





Glare: The negative effect of light that may disrupt or cause problems with vision. Glare can be put into three different catergories.

Blinding glare: Caused from staring directly at the Sun. May cause blindness or permenant problems with vision.
Disability glare: Caused by the blinding from oncoming car lights (high beams), or light scattering in fog or reduced contrast. May caused a reduction in sight capabilities.
Discomfort glare: Usually not dangerous, but may be irritating and cause fatigue.

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Light clutter: Caused by the excessive grouping of lights; usually seen in cities or roads. Light clutter may be distracting and cause accidents due to placement of the lights, as well as aviation hazards because light clutter could cause confusion with runway lights.

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