Can we see light pollution from space?

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    Light Pollution Space
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the visibility and mapping of light pollution from space, particularly in relation to its impact on astrophotography and perceptions of population density in certain regions. Participants explore the implications of satellite imagery and the factors influencing light pollution measurements.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants inquire about the feasibility of creating a map from satellites to quantify light pollution on Earth, particularly for astrophotography purposes.
  • Several links to existing light pollution maps are shared, suggesting that such resources are available for users.
  • One participant expresses surprise at the level of light pollution in Lapland and North Cape, questioning the population density in those areas.
  • Another participant notes that satellite images may not capture scattered light effectively, as they focus on direct light sources, which could lead to underestimating light pollution in less populated areas.
  • There is a repeated inquiry about whether light pollution measurements take cloud cover into account, with mixed responses regarding the influence of atmospheric conditions on perceived brightness.
  • One participant suggests that the map projection may distort perceptions of population density in polar regions, contributing to misunderstandings about light pollution levels.
  • Another participant acknowledges that the brightness of the sky is affected by both the amount of light produced and the transparency of the atmosphere.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying views on the visibility of light pollution in satellite images, the influence of atmospheric conditions, and the interpretation of population density in specific regions. No consensus is reached on these points, indicating ongoing debate and exploration of the topic.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight potential limitations in satellite imagery, such as the inability to capture scattered light effectively and the effects of map projection on perceived population density. These factors remain unresolved within the discussion.

LightningInAJar
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Is there a way to create a map from satellites showing how much light pollution there is on earth? For example if you wanted to do astro photography and wanted to know how far away from city you need to drive to see certain levels of detail from galaxy?
 
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Bandersnatch said:
Sure:
https://www.lightpollutionmap.info/

Very interesting. Thanks for sharing.

I'm surprised to see so much light pollution in Lapland and North Cape areas. They must be more populated than I thought.

1659645544980.png

The satellite night views of that area show little light from Lapland.
1659645700769.png


Is it possible that light pollution considers cloud cover in addition to light produced?
 
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Awesome. Thanks.
 
anorlunda said:
The satellite night views of that area show little light from Lapland.
That's probably because the picture is looking directly at light sources, which are MUCH brighter than the scattered light in the air. The small amount of scattered light simply won't show up on that picture, even though these 'light domes' can be very large.

Edit: Now that I look a little closer, I think light pollution can be seen around some of the major population centers. But the less populated areas are giving off less light, and thus less scattered light, which might not show up on the picture.
anorlunda said:
Is it possible that light pollution considers cloud cover in addition to light produced?
I don't think so.
 
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anorlunda said:
I'm surprised to see so much light pollution in Lapland and North Cape areas. They must be more populated than I thought.
I would probably blame the map projection. Polar areas get srteched, so it looks like a huge population centre.
 
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anorlunda said:
The satellite night views of that area show little light from Lapland.

Despite the light pollution which I'm not a fan of, it's a lovely image.
 
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