All life on Earth, including human beings, evolved to the rhythm of the day & night cycle. Light pollution disrupts this rhythm and can have severe negative consequences for ecosystems.

Excessive amounts of artificial light at night, especially blue light, can have negative consequences by disrupting our circadian rhythm. Research suggests that it can increase risks for depression, diabetes, and more.

A typical light fixture wastes 30% or more of its energy by shining it directly into the night sky, benefiting no one. Billions of dollars worth of electricity are wasted each year by poor lighting practices.

The night sky in the Big Bend region is iconic. It is a part of the identity of the region, and has been a part of human culture for countless generations. Light pollution threatens to erase our view of the sky.

Poor lighting designs create harsh glare and unsafe conditions at night, and in some situations may even give criminals an edge. Glare and over-lighting can also reduce visibility, leading to accidents.

Astronomical research depends on having dark skies. At McDonald Observatory, highly sensitive equipment can detect as few as a dozen photons from distant galaxies billions of light years away.