Light Pollution Map

Features: The platform offers an interactive, high-resolution global map that visualizes light pollution levels using data from the VIIRS (Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite) satellite. Key features include an overlay of the Bortle scale to measure night sky brightness, customizable map layers, coordinate searching, and a measurement tool that provides precise radiance and artificial brightness values for any selected location. Users can track data across multiple years to analyze changing light conditions and export map segments for research or personal use.

History: Developed as a citizen science project, the Light Pollution Map was created to make complex satellite data accessible to the general public. By consolidating disparate scientific datasets into a user-friendly, web-based GIS interface, the site serves to raise awareness about the environmental impact of artificial light at night (ALAN) and the rapid loss of dark skies worldwide.

Use cases: The tool is primarily used by amateur astronomers and astrophotographers to scout optimal locations for stargazing and deep-sky imaging away from urban light domes. Additionally, it serves as a valuable resource for urban planners, ecological researchers studying the impact of light on nocturnal wildlife, and environmental advocates working to implement dark-sky friendly lighting policies in their communities.