A recent study by a transdisciplinary research team found ample evidence of the negative effects of light pollution on migrating animals, but also areas where more data is needed. The researchers concluded that there's a need for more data to help protect migrating animals, particularly species other than birds.
SourceColorado State University·JournalTrends in Ecology & Evolution·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 5, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
Researchers found that simultaneously acting global change factors decrease grassland plant community diversity, regardless of individual factor quality. This effect is linked to increased biomass production due to the influence of highly influential factors like eutrophication.
SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 19, 2022
A new study found that exposure to outdoor artificial light at night is associated with impaired blood glucose control and an increased risk of diabetes. Chronic exposure to residential outdoor LAN was positively associated with blood glucose levels, insulin resistance and diabetes prevalence.
A Tel Aviv University study reveals that the Israeli shoreline is contaminated with more than two million tons of microplastics, with Tel Aviv and Hadera beaches being the most polluted. The researchers warn that exposure to microplastic waste is unavoidable and poses a risk to human health.
SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·DateOct 30, 2022
A new study finds that birds attracted to artificial light at night are drawn into areas with higher concentrations of airborne toxic chemicals. This exposure is especially problematic during non-breeding seasons, when songbirds are not avoiding light pollution.
SourceCornell University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 25, 2022
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.
A NASA initiative studies wildfire-induced air pollution by measuring atmospheric CO and O3 levels using airborne observations. The study found that CO levels increased in the plume as it was transported away from the fire site, while plume age was associated with distance in both vertical and horizontal directions.
SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Applied Remote Sensing·DateSep 7, 2022
A new study published in Ecological Applications found that urban density has a stronger correlation with house sparrow health than other environmental factors like light pollution or noise levels. The researchers also discovered high lead levels in the birds' bodies, which could be linked to bioaccumulation from food sources.
SourceEcological Society of America·JournalEcological Applications·DateJun 27, 2022
Research found that even a single light source can throw off the butterfly's internal clock, leading to erratic movements and disrupted navigation. Monarchs rely on darkness to process proteins key to their orientation, but light pollution can disrupt this process.
SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournaliScience·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 20, 2022
A study found that light pollution levels are increasing in the Western Hemisphere, particularly in Southeastern US, Mexico, and Central America, threatening nocturnal migrating bird populations. The authors suggest reversing light pollution trends to save a substantial number of migrating birds.
SourceCornell University·JournalEcosphere·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 31, 2022
A study by researchers at the University of Plymouth reveals that energy-efficient broad spectrum lighting is reducing the efficacy of coastal species' camouflage. This can have significant impacts on visually guided ecological processes, with certain color variations being more vulnerable to detection.
SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 25, 2022
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.
Researchers have developed a low-cost device to track insect activity, providing insights into their circadian rhythms and behavior. The portable pLAM device can monitor nocturnal species that were previously difficult to track, enabling scientists to study their habits and predict how environmental changes impact them.
SourceFlorida Museum of Natural History·JournalMethods in Ecology and Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 24, 2022
Researchers detected 43 trillion miniature plastic particles in Switzerland every year, with estimates suggesting up to 3,000 tonnes of nanoplastics covering the country annually. The study reveals that nanoplastics originate primarily from urban areas and global emissions, posing potential health risks when inhaled.
SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 25, 2022
Scientists at the University of Missouri study photodissociation reactions on the quantum level, revealing strong quantum effects that challenge classical 'billiard-ball' models. The research could lead to a better understanding of atmospheric chemistry and develop new theoretical frameworks.
SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalScience·DateJan 18, 2022
A study in Berlin found that urban areas can provide suitable habitat for bats if certain conditions are met, including low artificial light and access to vegetation and water bodies. The research involved over 200 citizen scientists and revealed that features of the urban landscape influenced the presence of bats.
SourceLeibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW)·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateJan 13, 2022
A new global atlas reveals that up to 1.9 million km2 of the world's coastal waters are affected by artificial light at night, with significant impacts on marine organisms. The study uses a novel metric to determine the depth of light penetration and highlights the need for further research into the effects of ALAN pollution.
SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalElementa Science of the Anthropocene·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 14, 2021
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.
Exposure to artificial light at night impairs crickets' activity cycles, disrupting their nocturnal chirping and potentially affecting reproduction. The study, conducted by researchers at Tel Aviv University and the Open University, highlights the need to reduce artificial light pollution to protect environmental behaviors.
SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateNov 2, 2021
A new study found that global light pollution has increased significantly over the past 25 years, with the true increase potentially being much higher. The study, led by the University of Exeter, reveals that the transition to solid-state LED technology has masked the impact of light pollution in many regions.
SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalRemote Sensing·TypeObservational study·DateSep 14, 2021
A new study found that LED streetlights have a detrimental impact on local insect populations, with moth caterpillar numbers being 52% lower under LED lighting than in unlit areas. The study suggests that this is due to female moths laying fewer eggs in habitats illuminated by streetlights.
SourceUK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateAug 25, 2021
A study by Osaka City University reveals that urban lighting and heat delay insect hibernation, allowing insects to enter hibernation up to 3 weeks later than in rural areas. The findings suggest that increased nighttime light and heat from urban areas interfere with the natural photoperiodism of insects.
SourceOsaka City University·JournalRoyal Society Open Science·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 18, 2021
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.
Research from University of Exeter found that light pollution impacts moths' ability to see flower colours, while birds' vision is improved by artificial lighting. The study highlights the need for a nuanced approach to lighting, especially for nocturnal species like moths.
SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 6, 2021
A new study found that birds across the continental US tend to avoid backyard feeders in louder areas, while even more species stay away when both light and noise pollution are present. Common bird species such as American goldfinches and cedar waxwings avoid areas with excessive noise.
SourceCalifornia Polytechnic State University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateJun 10, 2021
A recent study by the University of Melbourne revealed that young clownfish living closest to shore are dying faster due to exposure to artificial lighting. The research team found that nearshore juvenile clownfish grew 44% more slowly under artificial light than those in natural conditions.
A new study found that darkening even some windows at night during bird migration periods could reduce bird collisions by 60%. Researchers analyzed data from McCormick Place convention center and found that half of the building's windows being illuminated resulted in 11 times fewer nighttime bird collisions during spring migration.
SourceCornell University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 7, 2021
Researchers develop first complete reference method to measure natural brightness of night sky, revealing complex factors affecting glow in upper layers of atmosphere. The study uses network of low-cost photometers to analyze data from 44 darkest places worldwide.
SourceInstituto de Astrofísica de Canarias (IAC)·JournalThe Astronomical Journal·DateMay 6, 2021
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.
Researchers found that artificial light at night reduces diurnal insect visits to plants that were illuminated during the nighttime. Beetles increased their visits instead. The study's findings highlight the indirect ecological effects of light pollution and call for further research to mitigate its impact.
SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 17, 2021
A study from Lehigh University finds that light pollution may increase the likelihood of preterm birth, with a possible increase of up to 12.9%. The researchers suggest that circadian rhythm disruption could be a biological mechanism underlying this link.
SourceLehigh University·JournalSouthern Economic Journal·DateJan 25, 2021
Boosting appreciation for insects is key to conservation. Simple actions like reserving 10% of a lawn for insects or cultivating native plants can provide crucial habitat and food reservoirs. Additionally, reducing nighttime light pollution and using insect-friendly soaps can help protect insect populations.
SourceFlorida Museum of Natural History·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 12, 2021
A study found that urban tree canopy cover and reduced light pollution during migration seasons contribute to higher species richness. Conversely, higher levels of artificial light at night were associated with lower species counts, particularly during winter and summer.
SourceCornell University·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateDec 9, 2020
A new study found that noise and light pollution alter bird nesting habits and success in North America. Birds responding to increased light may track climate change better than those in darker habitats. Noise pollution affects birds differently, with forested environments being more sensitive to noise.
SourceCalifornia Polytechnic State University·JournalNature·DateNov 11, 2020
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.
Researchers found that artificial light pollution affects coral reproduction, causing delayed gametogenesis and unsynchronized gamete release. The study suggests that natural periodic illumination is crucial for cueing spawning synchronicity and the gametogenic process.
SourceBar-Ilan University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateNov 5, 2020
A study of over 100 studies found that artificial night-time lighting has a profound impact on animals and plants, reducing melatonin levels and altering hormone regulation. The effects were particularly strong in diurnal species, causing them to start their daily activities earlier, while nocturnal species saw reduced activity duration.
SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateNov 2, 2020
Researchers measured streetlight contribution to urban lighting for the first time using smart city technology and satellite imagery. The study found that only around 20% of nighttime light emissions come from streetlights.
SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·JournalLighting Research & Technology·DateOct 29, 2020
Research from the University of Notre Dame found that artificial light abnormally increases mosquito biting behavior at night in Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. The study suggests that increasing levels of light pollution could impact the transmission of diseases such as dengue fever, yellow fever, and Zika.
SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalAmerican Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene·DateOct 20, 2020
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SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.
A new study found that light pollution draws mule deer to artificial lighting, making them more active at night, while cougars exploit dark spots to hunt successfully. The research combined satellite data with GPS location information from hundreds of animals, providing the largest dataset on cougar-mule deer interactions.
SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalEcography·DateOct 19, 2020
A team of researchers discovered that synchronous fireflies don't flash according to an innate rhythm but instead adjust their behavior based on what their neighbors are doing. The study uses a new technological approach to map out the locations of the bugs flashing in their vicinity, revealing a more complex synchronization mechanism.
SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateSep 23, 2020
A recent study found that coastal cities' street lights can permeate all areas of the water column, posing a significant threat to coastal species. Biologically important artificial light pollution reached 76% and 70% of the seafloor in green and blue wavelengths, respectively.
SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 30, 2020
Researchers measure neurological responses to light pollution in wildlife, finding both magpies and pigeons' sleep disrupted by artificial white and amber lighting. The study suggests that using short-term solutions like switching off porch lights and installing sensor lights can help mitigate the impact of light pollution on bird sleep.
SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJul 23, 2020
Research from Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology found that light pollution can significantly increase the number of insects consumed by invasive cane toads. The study, published in Scientific Reports, used outdoor enclosures with artificial lights to test the impact on the toad's diet.
SourceTokyo University of Agriculture and Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 1, 2020
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.
Research by Bangor University and University of Plymouth reveals artificial lighting disrupts lunar compass used by sand hoppers and other marine species, leading to altered migration patterns and potential ecosystem impacts.
SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalCurrent Biology·DateJun 22, 2020
Researchers found that even low levels of urban sky glow can suppress melatonin production in European perch, leading to impaired sleep. This highlights the impact of artificial lighting on aquatic life's natural rhythms.
SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateApr 3, 2020
A recent study has revealed that Arctic light pollution can significantly impact the behavior of fish and zooplankton, even at depths of up to 200 meters. The researchers used autonomous underwater vehicles to observe the effects of artificial light on these organisms during the polar night.
SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalCommunications Biology·DateMar 23, 2020
GoPro HERO13 Black
GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.
A new framework understanding how light and noise pollution impacts wildlife has been developed by worldwide experts in ecology and physiology. Sensory danger zones have been identified as areas where sensory pollutants influence animal activity, posing a threat to imperiled species and urban wildlife.
SourceS.J. & Jessie E. Quinney College of Natural Resources, Utah State University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMar 16, 2020
Fireflies face numerous threats, including habitat loss and artificial light pollution, which can harm their bioluminescent displays and overall survival. Conservation efforts, such as preserving habitats and reducing insecticide use, can help improve firefly populations and mitigate these threats.
SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·DateFeb 24, 2020
A recent study by a team of biologists at Tufts University has found that fireflies are threatened by habitat loss, light pollution, and pesticide use. The researchers surveyed experts worldwide to identify the most significant threats to firefly survival, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect these insects.
SourceTufts University·JournalBioScience·DateFeb 3, 2020
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.
Firefly beetles are threatened by habitat loss and artificial light, with pesticides posing additional problems. The authors propose four primary goals to improve firefly prospects: preserving suitable habitats, controlling light pollution, reducing insecticide use, and developing sustainable tourism guidelines.
SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·JournalBioScience·DateFeb 3, 2020
Research found that even low levels of urban skyglow can suppress melatonin production in humans and vertebrates. The sensitivity threshold for humans is 6 lux, while fish and rodents require much lower levels. Artificial light at night can disrupt nocturnal melatonin production.
SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalSustainability·DateDec 19, 2019
Artificial light at night negatively impacts thousands of species, causing global declines in abundance. Experts recommend turning off unnecessary lights, using motion-activated fixtures, and selecting amber-colored lights to curb light pollution and preserve insect populations.
SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalBiological Conservation·DateNov 18, 2019
Researchers discovered that bleach fumes combined with light and limonene from household products can form airborne particles harmful to pets and humans. These particles, known as secondary organic aerosols, have been linked to respiratory issues and other health effects.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateOct 2, 2019
A new mouse study shows that disrupting the daily routine of gut microbes in mice increases the risk for metabolic dysfunction and obesity. The findings suggest a link between microbiota damage and human obesity, particularly in modern environments with antibiotics or long-distance jet travel.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateSep 26, 2019
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.
A new study by Flinders University and the University of Melbourne found that artificial light pollution can prevent clownfish eggs from hatching. The presence of artificial light at night (ALAN) masks natural cues, leading to a zero success rate for test eggs incubated in its presence.
Research from Binghamton University finds that exposure to light at night can decrease hatching success in tadpoles and make them more susceptible to additional stressors like road salt pollution and parasites. The study suggests that combining light pollution with other stressors may have negative impacts on amphibian populations.
SourceBinghamton University·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·DateMay 28, 2019
Researchers argue that Spain's current regulations on light pollution are inadequate and propose a change in approach to minimize the problem. Using white light instead of yellow light can provide significant energy savings while maintaining user safety, with potential benefits for environmental and economic aspects as well.
SourceUniversity of Granada·JournalLEUKOS The Journal of the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America·DateMay 9, 2019
A study by Brazilian researchers shows that the Tietê River's water quality improves steadily as it flows through a series of dams along its 1,100 km course. The filtration process retains matter in suspension, affecting light absorption and ultimately making the river transparent at its downstream end.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalWater·DateApr 29, 2019
Meta Quest 3 512GB
Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.
A study by Cornell University found that Chicago tops the list of most dangerous cities for migrating birds due to its unique combination of light pollution and geography. The research also revealed that four eastern cities in the US make the autumn list, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts to reduce bird mortality.
SourceCornell University·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateApr 1, 2019
A study found that urban bats' responses to artificial light vary across species, seasons, and lamp types. Tree cover mitigates the negative effects of light pollution on bat activity, allowing some species to thrive in areas with high tree density. However, most species are repelled by street lamps, regardless of UV emission.
SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and Evolution·DateMar 27, 2019
A new web application called Radiance Light Trends allows anyone to analyze satellite data on light emissions since 1992, tracking changes in regions like Berlin and the Tucson International Airport. The app provides valuable insights into the causes of these changes, including energy-saving measures and greenhouse lighting.
SourceGFZ GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Helmholtz Centre·DateMar 6, 2019
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.
Research finds less than a third of world's Key Biodiversity Areas have pristine night skies, while over half are under artificially bright skies. This study highlights the significant impact of light pollution on ecosystems, causing changes in species behavior and ecosystem cycles.
SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalAnimal Conservation·DateFeb 10, 2019
Researchers develop a simple and inexpensive method using ultraviolet light to gather and organize particles in liquids, enabling precise control of fluid flow and potential applications in sensing, drug delivery, and nanotechnology. The method shows promise for sorting particles by size and moving uphill toward the light source.
A study led by Newcastle University found that turning off street lights at midnight has no negative impact on moths' ability to pollinate plants. In fact, it may even help restore natural behavior. By switching off part of the night, local authorities can save energy while supporting nocturnal wildlife.
SourceNewcastle University·JournalEcosphere·DateJan 20, 2019
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.
A population-based study found significant association between nighttime artificial, outdoor light exposure and increased prevalence of hypnotic prescriptions among older adults. The study suggests that higher levels of artificial light at night may lead to longer periods of hypnotic drug use in this demographic.
SourceAmerican Academy of Sleep Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Sleep Medicine·DateNov 30, 2018