01
Loss of the Night Sky
Most of the world's population can no longer see the Milky Way from where they live.
ULOR = 0% · CCT ≤ 3000KProtecting the night sky · Valladolid
Light
pollution
Light pollution is the brightening of the night sky caused by scattered artificial light. Discover why it is a problem and how we can solve it together.
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The problem
What Is Light Pollution?
of the Spanish population lives under polluted skies.
Light pollution occurs when artificial light is cast where it is not needed, especially towards the sky. It creates a glow that hides the stars and seriously affects nocturnal biodiversity.
In Spain, more than 80% of the population lives under polluted skies and cannot see the Milky Way from where they live.
Consequences
Impacts of Light Pollution
Excess artificial light has consequences far beyond losing sight of the stars.
02
Impact on Biodiversity
Artificial light disrupts the natural cycles of plants, insects, birds and nocturnal mammals.
03
Effects on Health
Night-time exposure to artificial light can disrupt circadian rhythms and affect rest.
04
Energy Waste
An estimated one third of outdoor lighting is unnecessary, wasting energy and resources.
The solution
The Solution: Smart Lighting
At Astroval we promote the five pillars of sustainable lighting.
01What to light?
Usefulness
Only what is strictly necessary for safety or traffic. Avoid unnecessary ornamental lighting.
02Where to?
Directionality
Always direct the beam downwards, shielded and confined to the area of use. ULOR = 0%.
03How much light?
Intensity
The lowest light level that still guarantees safety. Avoid over-lighting.
04Which colour?
Spectrum
Favour warm tones (≤3000K) to reduce atmospheric scatter and protect biodiversity.
05When?
Timing
Light only when users are present. Use motion sensors and timers.
How we measure it
Our Technical Standards
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ULOR · Upward light output ratio
We require all outdoor luminaires from our members to emit zero light towards the sky. No light should be projected above the horizontal plane.
≤3000K
CCT · Colour temperature
We only allow warm light to minimise atmospheric scatter. Cool white light (>4000K) is forbidden in our members' installations.
SQM
Sky Quality Meter · mag/arcsec²
We use professional photometers to measure sky quality in magnitudes per square arc second (mag/arcsec²). A higher value means a darker sky.
Want to know more about Astroval?
Whether you are an astronomy enthusiast or run an establishment interested in astrotourism, we will be glad to help.