ILLUMINATING LIGHT POLLUTION: MODELS AND RISK ASSESSMENT TECHNIQUES

Abstract

Over the past decade, artificial light sources have significantly intensified nocturnal luminance, leading to a substantial reduction in the observable starscape to the naked eye. A report in the US journal Science underscores that if this trend persists, the count of discernible stars without aid will plummet to less than half of present figures within two decades. Studies further accentuate that light pollution's ramifications transcend the natural realm, extending to disruptive effects on flora and fauna, ecosystem equilibrium, and the delicate balance of human chronobiology and endocrine functions. This multifaceted impact necessitates stringent management and control measures for mitigating light pollution's pervasive influence