The Wild Dark: Losing the Night Sky

0:00Anchorage story is making news on March 14th. 80% of people on Earth can no longer see the Milky Way, with the naked eye, thanks to growing light pollution. Explore and writer Craig Childs highlights this in his new book, The Wild Dark. He notes that artificial light around the world jumped 40% between 1992 and 2013, much of it from energy efficient, LEDs. Childs decided to experience the contrast firsthand. He by 200 miles from the bright lights of Las Vegas, one of the most illuminated cities, across desert trails into increasingly dark skies. He tracked his progress using the border scale, starting at Border 9, where only the moon and a few planets show, and ending at Border 1, overflowing with stars. This loss of darkness stirs a sense of grief, called noctalgia, among those who remember clearer nights. Childs weaves in stories of how artificial light harms wildlife, from birds crashing into buildings during migrations, to disoriented sea turtles, and foxes.

1:02He also points out the rising number of satellites, now at 10,000, and expected to hit 50,000 by decades in, streaking across even, remote skies. The book mixes science, history, and mythology to show our deep connection to the stars. Childs shares tales like the dying story of coyotes scattering the stars, reminding us how ancient cultures found wonder overhead. Scientists to fight back include dark sky programs worldwide, with over 230 certified places in 20 countries. Childs helped his small Colorado town, join as one of just 22 communities. He urges us to dim lights, shield fixtures, and seek out true darkness to reclaim that shared night sky. A quick thank you to our sponsor of today's episode. Do not just listen to podcasts, get lost in them comfortably, so I solely pillow dot com.