Light Pollution - Is There Anything We Can Do About It?

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Low cost and low energy LED lighting is increasing light pollution. The shorter the wavelength of the light that's given out, the more bluer or the more whiter the light is. So as we transition from sodium lights and other traditional light forms into these cost efficient LEDs, we're actually markedly increasing the problem. If you want to take part in the CPRE star count 2023, well, it's happening between February the 17th and the 24th.

This week star gazers will be hoping to catch sight of an exotic green comet that last passed by Earth 50,000 years ago. But, unlike the view our Neanderthal ancestors would have had, light pollution will make witnessing this celestial event an impossibility for many. Ian Sample speaks to astronomy journalist Dr Stuart Clark about how best to see the comet, and why it’s time to rethink our relationship with the night sky. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/sciencepod