Bring Back the Stars!
Five Easy Steps to Enjoying New Mexico’s Oldest Natural Wonder
By taking a few simple actions, you can practice dark sky-friendly lighting, conserve energy, save money, be a better neighbor, and reap the rewards of a beautiful, starry night sky! Each of us can do something every day to use lighting more efficiently and effectively. Here are five easy and inexpensive ways you can reduce light pollution at your home.
- Ask first “does it need to be lighted?” For example, use reflectors instead of lights to mark the entrance to your driveway.
- Shield all exterior lighting – prevent glare and light trespass to adjacent property.
- Aim lights downward – make sure all light is directed to illuminate the intended area. Do not allow light emission above a horizontal plane.
- Use motion sensors – A sensor will activate the light when needed; saving money while more effectively deterring troublemakers.
- Buy lighting according to lumens, not wattage – most manufacturers now list lumens (light output) in addition to wattage (power consumption) on packaging. Check labels for lumens ratings and you will have good lighting, save money and conserve energy all at the same time.
Differences between unacceptable and acceptable lighting fixtures.