It's a pollution that's rarely spoken of, but one that's endangering ecosystems by harming animals whose life cycles depend on dark skies. Light pollution is defined as excessive, misdirected, or obtrusive artificial light. In this edition of Down to Earth we find out more.

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Today, researchers say that 99 percent of Americans and Europeans experience some form of light pollution and one third of the globe can’t see the Milky Way.



Not only does it impact our view of the universe, but it also disrupts the natural cycle of wildlife, interferes with astronomical research and wastes energy.

We take a closer look at the problem.



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