Losing the Night Sky: The Growing Threat of Light Pollution

A journey to the Chilean Atacama Desert reveals breathtakingly dark skies, a stark contrast to the ever-increasing light pollution affecting much of the world. The author explores the escalating problem, highlighting the contributions of LED lighting and the proliferation of satellites. The piece emphasizes the importance of preserving dark skies, not only for astronomical observation but for humanity's connection to the cosmos and our understanding of our place within the vast universe. While pockets of darkness remain, the rapid expansion of light pollution threatens future generations' ability to experience the wonder of a truly starry night. The author urges action to address this growing environmental and cultural loss.