Tag

Artificial Light

All articles tagged with #artificial light

environment1 month ago•3 min saved

Earth’s night lights rise, but the glow flickers with policy and conflict

NASA-funded study of 1.16 million satellite images shows artificial night lighting increased about 16% globally from 2014–2022, but regional shifts were volatile: Europe dimmed significantly due to efficiency rules and energy shortages, Venezuela dropped after economic collapse, while Asia continued to brighten; the United States saw mixed signals with West Coast growth and East Coast dimming; gas flaring in central US highlighted energy waste; overall radiance rose but with a patchwork of bright and dim regions, reflecting policy, economy, and conflict.

via The Guardian|

#artificial-light #energy-efficiency #environment

health1 month ago•15 min saved

Camping Could Reset Your Sleep Clock and Boost Rest

A BBC Health piece reports that a weekend of camping can shift the circadian clock about two hours earlier by immersing people in natural daylight and reducing artificial light, helping align sleep with the day-night cycle and potentially lowering risks linked to late bedtimes. Based on Kenneth Wright’s research and campers’ experiences, the article notes outdoor sounds can aid sleep and offers tips for first-time campers to improve comfort while adapting to nature.

via BBC|

#artificial-light #camping #circadian-rhythm

health10 months ago•7 min saved

The Impact of Artificial Night Light on Brain and Heart Health

Artificial light at night disrupts circadian rhythms, affecting immune function, mood, metabolism, and sleep, especially in shift workers and hospitalized patients. Research by Dr. Randy Nelson highlights potential solutions like light management and policy changes to mitigate these effects and improve health outcomes.

via Study Finds|

#artificial-light #brain-health #circadian-rhythms

science-and-environment2 years ago•6 min saved

"The Fascinating Attraction of Insects to Artificial Night Lights"

New research suggests that insects are drawn to artificial light at night because they mistake it for the sky, which they use to navigate. The light confuses them, causing them to orbit around it with their backs facing it. This behavior disrupts their natural activities such as pollination, mating, and evading predators, leading to potential population loss. The study highlights the negative impact of light pollution on insect populations and suggests using less artificial light, avoiding flood lights, using warmer LED settings, and implementing shielding or shrouding lights to minimize glare.

via BBC.com|

#artificial-light #environmental-impact #insects

science2 years ago•6 min saved

"The Sky's the Limit: Unraveling the Mystery of Insects' Attraction to Light at Night"

Researchers have discovered that insects circle artificial lights at night because they lose track of the sky due to the way their flight patterns are disrupted by the lights. The insects' behavior is a result of a known response called the dorsal light response, where they point their backs toward the lights, altering their flight paths. This behavior leaves them vulnerable and prone to exhaustion, making them easy targets for predators and disrupting nocturnal ecosystems. The study highlights the harmful effects of light pollution on insects and emphasizes the need to minimize artificial light at night to protect nocturnal wildlife and restore views of the night sky.

via Phys.org|

#artificial-light #flight-behavior #insects

science2 years ago•10 min saved

The Confusing Attraction: How Artificial Light Affects Insects

Scientists have discovered that moths and other insects are drawn to artificial light because it interferes with their natural ability to determine "up" while flying. Motion-capture videos show that insects instinctively turn their backs to the light source, a behavior that helps them orient themselves in a natural setting. However, when the brightest light comes from an artificial source, insects become disoriented and exhibit erratic flight patterns. Researchers have also found that creating a light that mimics the sky can prevent insects from becoming trapped, shedding light on the impact of artificial light on insect behavior and conservation efforts.

via NPR|

#artificial-light #entomology #insect-flight

lifestyle2 years ago•2 min saved

Embracing the Winter Solstice: Celebrating the Shortest Day with Artificial Light

As the winter solstice brings the shortest daylight day of the year, residents of Anchorage, Alaska, are dealing with just over 5 hours of sunlight. The dark and gloomy winter season can have a significant impact on people's moods, with the lack of natural light causing feelings of gloom and haze. However, the city's artificial lights, including neon signs, holiday displays, and illuminated roadways, provide a contrast to the darkness. Despite the challenges, Anchorage residents are looking forward to gaining a few seconds of daylight and anticipating a brighter future.

via Anchorage Daily News|

#anchorage #artificial-light #darkness

environment2 years ago•4 min saved

"Saving Birds: Architectural Solutions and City Initiatives to Reduce Collisions and Light Attraction"

The collision of birds with glass buildings is a significant problem, with up to a billion birds suffering the same fate every year. Architects are exploring design solutions to prevent bird strikes, such as using fritted glass, curved balconies, and graphic ornamentation. Bird-friendly film and reducing artificial light at night have also proven effective. However, the challenge lies in changing attitudes towards artificial light in cities, as it is deeply ingrained in the 24/7 culture. Taking steps to make cities more bird-friendly could also lead to a greater appreciation of dark skies and reconnect humans with the beauty of nature.

via CNN|

#architecture #artificial-light #bird-collisions

lifestyle3 years ago•4 min saved

"Lighting Tips for Improved Mental Health and Well-being"

The right kind of lighting is essential to human well-being, impacting our state of mind, productivity, and emotional well-being. Exposure to natural light and certain types of artificial light helps maintain our circadian rhythm, regulating key functions such as sleep-wake patterns, hormone release, blood pressure, and body temperature fluctuations. Strategies to consider when devising a lighting plan for your own space include capitalizing on natural light, using different types of light in different rooms, and using full-spectrum lightbulbs to replicate natural sunlight.

via The Washington Post|

#artificial-light #circadian-rhythm #lifestyle