Preserving the natural night skies is becoming an increasingly important issue as light pollution continues to spread across cities and towns worldwide. The concept of “dark skies” refers to the ability to experience and enjoy the beauty of a starry night sky unmarred by excessive and misdirected artificial light. Implementing dark sky compliant lighting solutions, such as post lights, is crucial in reducing light pollution and protecting this natural wonder.
Pulsar series Brand: Crystal Architectural Post Mount Luminaire; Walkways, Perimeters, Campuses, Parking Lots, Parks; Dark Sky Friendly Compliance; 10 Year warranty; 20/40/50/70/85/100/150/200W. Prices Start at $550. |
CLP-257 Brand: Crystal A premium luminaire; up to 17,951 lumens 42/84/97/129W; a 10-year warranty. Prices Start at $500. |
D323 Brand: Crystal in a historical design; wide light distribution; Dark Sky Compliant; Two sizes – 18″ and 29″ Post Top, Wall, Pendant Mount; 5/10/20/30/35/40W; Prices start at $400. |
Bell series Brand: Crystal 20″ Medium, 25″ Large 40/50/60/80/100/120 150/180/200W, Prices start at $600. |
5001 series Brand: Crystal Dark Sky compliant; includes a 10-year warranty; up to 24,500l lumens @ 200W; 25/45/55/65/ 80/200W. Prices start at $350. |
LS-RMS-PT Brand: Ledsion Contemporary design, up to 13,000 Lumens at 100W; 22″ in height; DLC Listed; available in 30/50/75/100W; Prices start at $350. |
TP325 Brand: YaoRong Post Top LED area light for parking lots, plaza lighting, shopping mall, garden, roadway, DLC Listed; up to 11,327 lumens Dimmable; 20/35/50/100W; Prices start at $350. |
HALO-L Brand” G-Comin Ideal for parking lots, squares, parks, greenbelts, golf courses, Unique appearance, stylish decoration for your public space; 30/50/80/100/150/200/240W; Prices start at $300. |
The Importance of Dark Skies
The night sky has been a source of wonder, inspiration, and scientific discovery for centuries. However, the increasing urbanization and widespread use of poorly designed outdoor lighting have led to a significant degradation of the night sky’s visibility. Light pollution not only diminishes our ability to appreciate the stars but also disrupts the natural cycles of many species, wastes energy, and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions.
Reducing Light Pollution
Reducing light pollution is a collective responsibility, and it starts with making informed choices about outdoor lighting. By selecting dark sky compliant post lights, individuals and communities can contribute to preserving the natural night skies while enjoying the benefits of well-designed outdoor lighting. read more about A Guide to Embracing the Night: How Dark Sky Friendly Lighting Can Illuminate Our World Differently here.
What are the Dark Sky Compliance Standards?
Dark sky compliance standards are guidelines established by organizations like the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) to minimize light pollution. These standards address various aspects of outdoor lighting, including: read more about Dark Sky-friendly Compliance here
– Shielding: Fixtures should be designed to direct light downward, preventing upward light emission.
– Spectral content: Warmer color temperatures (below 3000K) are preferred to reduce blue light emissions, which contribute more to sky glow.
– Brightness: Lighting should be appropriate for the intended task and no brighter than necessary.
– Timing: Outdoor lighting should be controlled by timers or motion sensors to minimize unnecessary illumination.
What Lights Don’t Cause Light Pollution?
Dark sky compliant post lights are specifically designed to minimize light pollution while providing adequate illumination for outdoor spaces. These lights typically feature:
– Full shielding to prevent upward light emission.
– Warm color temperatures (2700K-3000K) for a more natural and pleasing ambiance.
– Appropriate brightness levels for the intended application.
– Efficient light distribution to minimize over-lighting.
Examples of dark sky compliant post lights include fully shielded LED fixtures, low-voltage landscape lighting, and motion-sensor-controlled path lights.
What is Dark Sky Certification?
The International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) offers a Dark Sky certification program to recognize and promote responsible outdoor lighting practices. Certification is available for various entities, including parks, communities, and lighting fixtures. To obtain certification, products or locations must meet stringent criteria for minimizing light pollution and preserving dark skies.
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