The Effects of Anthropogenic Air and Light Pollution on Astrophysics and Society

TL;DR

This study investigates how human-made air and light pollution impact the night sky, affecting astronomical observations and public perceptions, with findings showing correlations between pollution levels, sky brightness, and misinformation.

Contribution

It provides new empirical data linking air pollutants to increased sky brightness and explores public misconceptions about pollution effects.

Findings

Aerosol particles increase night sky brightness.

Air pollution amplifies cloud formation and light reflection.

Public perceptions are often inaccurate regarding pollution impacts.

Abstract

Light and air pollution are the two main forms of pollution, containing the highest concentration in urban areas. I set out to investigate the effects of anthropogenic air and light pollution on the night sky, how this affects the astronomical data-collecting process, and how the general public perceives both forms of pollution. This paper utilizes primary and secondary research, referring to different sources: data collected through my telescope, astrophotography, other scientists' research, and survey responses from over 40 people across 2 areas: Southern California and Guadalajara, Mexico. Through this, I have found strong correlations between increased aerosol particles from air pollutants and increased night sky brightness, increased aerosol particles amplifying cloud formation, which in turn increases light reflection, and a correlation between different areas and what they believe about pollution, with many being misinformed on air and light pollution themselves.