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light fixtures to help keep a Dark Sky in Colorado

Light pollution doesn’t just rob us of a star-filled night — it also disrupts wildlife, wastes energy, and impacts human health. But here’s the good news: we can fix it. In Colorado, communities, businesses, and individuals are already teaming up to protect our beautiful, dark sky. Read on for easy strategies and reasons why it matters, plus a reminder that the cosmos is far too spectacular to be drowned out by excessive lighting.


A Growing Issue — But One We Can Solve


Dark skies vs. not so dark sky

A recent Washington Post editorial highlights a startling trend: Over the past decade, global light pollution has made the sky 10% brighter. That means a child could grow up spotting half as many stars by college as they once could.

  • Wildlife: Migratory birds lose their navigational cues. Pollinators and nocturnal creatures get disoriented.

  • Human Health: Our circadian rhythms depend on darkness. Excessive nighttime lighting can fuel insomnia, stress, and even obesity.

  • Energy Waste: Light that shoots into the sky, rather than where it’s needed, burns money and resources for zero benefit.

Yet it doesn’t take massive projects or big money to tackle this problem. As we’ll see, simple changes to outdoor lighting can go a long way toward restoring the wonders of the night sky.


Shielded Lights & Smarter Bulbs


1. Point Lights Downward

One major culprit is fixtures that shine upward. Shield lights so beams only illuminate walkways, not the sky. You’ll increase efficiency and reduce glare.


2. Use Warm, Low-Intensity LEDs

Opt for amber or warm-toned LEDs rather than harsh white or blue. Blue-hued light scatters more, causing skyglow and affecting nocturnal animals and human sleep patterns. Lower-intensity bulbs are energy-friendly and kinder to wildlife.


3. Adopt Motion Sensors & Timers

Those floodlights don’t need to be on all night. Motion sensors switch on only when needed, saving electricity and preserving stars. Timers and dimmers also help.


Busting the Security Myth

Some believe that constant brightness deters crime. Research, however, often shows the opposite:

  • Bright lighting can embolden trespassers, letting them see what they’re doing.

  • Motion-activated lights startle intruders and clue neighbors in on unusual activity.

  • 24/7 lights can suggest no one’s home to turn them off.

It’s a win-win: You enhance security and reduce your power bill.


Community Action for the Dark Sky


Orion with and without light pollution

Team Up with Neighbors

One well-lit yard might not seem like a big deal, but entire neighborhoods of floodlights wipe out stars for miles. Encourage neighbors to switch out or shield their fixtures. Host a star party to show them what they’re missing!


Check Local Ordinances

Many Colorado communities — including Boulder — have laws on how bright or high outdoor lights can be. If you see glaring lights or unshielded fixtures violating these rules, contact your city or county. A simple report can spur changes.


Dark Sky Financial Incentives

At AstroTours.org, we’ve offered cost-sharing deals to help folks afford shielded, motion-sensor, or low-intensity lighting solutions. These upgrades often pay for themselves in energy savings and fewer bulb replacements. If you update your lights to ones that better protect our sky we are willing to give 1/2 of what you spent off one of our tours up to 42$ (if you spend 84$ or more in updating your lights to be more Dark Sky friendly we will give you one free astro tour) {expires 5/1/2025}


Why It Matters

  • Conserve Energy: Lower bills and fewer carbon emissions.

  • Protect Ecosystems: Birds, insects, and nocturnal mammals thrive under naturally dark nights.

  • Improve Health: Proper darkness is vital to human circadian rhythms.

  • Preserve Our Heritage: Colorado’s star-studded skies are part of our cultural identity and a source of endless inspiration.

If we can’t see the Milky Way, we lose a piece of who we are — but by turning off unnecessary lights, we can reignite that connection.


Join the Movement

No matter where you are in Colorado:

  1. Upgrade Your Bulbs: Choose warm or amber LEDs, and make sure fixtures are fully shielded.

  2. Use Motion Sensors & Timers: The best lights are those that operate efficiently and only when truly needed.

  3. Report Violations: Help local authorities keep tabs on glaring lights that break municipal codes.

  4. Seek Dark Skies: Learn more about local dark-sky initiatives like DarkSky International or check out the Colorado Dark Sky Places for top viewing spots.

For additional tips on eco-friendly stargazing, explore our post on Earth’s Moon: A Loyal Companion and Celestial Wonder. Seeing how the Moon’s phases interact with carefully managed night lighting is a fantastic reminder that small changes can have a big cosmic impact.


Let the Stars Shine

Light pollution is a man-made issue, which means it’s 100% solvable. By being mindful of our lighting — aiming it downward, using lower intensities, and switching off when not needed — we can bring back the awe-inspiring night sky that’s guided and comforted humanity for millennia.

Join us in safeguarding Colorado’s stars. Let’s keep the spirit of nighttime wonder alive for today’s explorers and tomorrow’s dreamers.

Clear skies and happy stargazing!

Updated: Aug 26, 2024


We are excited to introduce the newest member of the AstroTours.org family, Mazzy! With her deep passion for astronomy and a wealth of experience, Mazzy is ready to guide you on an unforgettable journey through the night sky.


Mazzy is currently a student at the University of Colorado Boulder, where she is majoring in Mathematics with double minors in Space and Astronomy. Her love for the cosmos doesn’t stop in the classroom—she’s also an active member of the Fiske Planetarium Outreach team, where she travels to schools across Colorado, inspiring young minds with the wonders of astronomy.


Mazzy’s journey into the world of astronomy began in high school as a dedicated member of the Civil Air Patrol. There, she led the aerospace education program, teaching lessons on astronomy, aerodynamics, robotics, and rocketry. Through these experiences, Mazzy has honed her skills in naked-eye astronomy, navigating the night sky, and sharing the fascinating mythologies and scientific facts about stars and planets.


Over the past three months, Mazzy has been training and shadowing our seasoned astronomers, and we are thrilled to announce that she is now ready to start running tours on her own. Her enthusiasm, knowledge, and ability to engage with audiences of all ages make her a perfect fit for our team.


We invite you to join Mazzy on one of our upcoming stargazing tours and experience the night sky through her expert guidance. Welcome to the team, Mazzy—we can’t wait to see the stars with you!

In the vast expanse of the universe, where each twinkling star tells a story older than time, AstroTours.org stands as a beacon for those seeking to connect with the cosmos. Our mission transcends beyond mere astronomical tours; we endeavor to educate and inspire, guiding people of all ages to a deeper understanding and appreciation of our universe. This blog post explores the importance of our work in nurturing curiosity, preserving celestial wonders, and contributing to the global astronomical community.


Astro Tours At sun set

Lighting the Spark of Cosmic Curiosity


Unveiling the Universe's Mysteries

Astronomy, the oldest of sciences, is a window to the universe, revealing wonders from the delicate dance of planets to the fiery deaths of stars. At AstroTours.org, we aim to unveil these mysteries in a way that is accessible and engaging for everyone. By demystifying the cosmos, we turn the gaze of our guests upwards, lighting a spark of curiosity that could burn for a lifetime.


Hands-On Learning Experiences

Our tours are more than just observational; they are immersive experiences that offer hands-on learning. By peering through telescopes and engaging in interactive discussions, guests don’t just witness the cosmos; they become part of the astronomical journey, fostering a deeper connection and understanding of the universe.


Preserving Celestial Heritage


Advocating for Dark Skies

As stewards of the night, we recognize the critical importance of preserving dark skies. Light pollution not only robs us of our celestial heritage but also disrupts natural ecosystems. Our efforts extend beyond tours as we actively participate in campaigns and initiatives to reduce light pollution, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the same starry skies that have inspired humanity for millennia.


Connecting with Cultural Astronomy

The stars have been a canvas for human mythology, art, and science throughout history. By integrating cultural stories and folklore into our astronomical programs, we preserve these rich traditions, offering a unique perspective that intertwines the past with the present, allowing guests to see the sky through the lens of different cultures.


Inspiring the Next Generation of Astronomers


Nurturing Future Scientists and Thinkers

In an age where science and technology shape our future, fostering an interest in astronomy is more critical than ever. Our programs for children and young adults aim to ignite a passion for science and exploration. By inspiring the next generation, we contribute to a future where the mysteries of the universe continue to be explored and understood.


Collaborating with Educational Institutions

Our collaboration with schools and educational institutions is a cornerstone of our mission. By bringing astronomy to the classroom and the classroom to the stars, we help embed a scientific understanding and appreciation of the cosmos in the educational journey of students.


In Conclusion: AstroTours.org's Pledge to the Stars


Our mission at AstroTours.org is a pledge to the stars – to bring the wonders of the universe to people from all walks of life, to inspire, to educate, and to preserve the celestial wonders for generations to come. As we continue our journey, we invite you to join us under the starlit sky, to look up and wonder, and to be part of a community that cherishes the cosmic connection we all share.


Explore the universe with us, and let's keep the fire of curiosity burning bright. Visit AstroTours.org to embark on an astronomical adventure that's not just a tour, but a journey to the heart of the cosmos. 🌌🔭✨

At AstroTours.org, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to connect with the cosmos, to understand its importance, and to carry forward the torch of astronomical wonder and exploration.

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