Research & Publications
Save Darkness is committed to evidence-based advocacy. We collaborate with researchers, universities, and international organizations to study the effects of light pollution and develop effective solutions.
Our Research Focus Areas
- Night Sky Quality Monitoring: Using Sky Quality Meters (SQM) and all-sky cameras to document light pollution levels across India, creating baseline data for future comparison and policy advocacy.
- Wildlife Impact Studies: Conducting field research on the effects of artificial light on sea turtle nesting behavior, firefly populations, bird migration patterns, and insect communities.
- Human Health Surveys: Partnering with medical researchers to study the correlation between outdoor light levels and health outcomes in Indian communities.
- Lighting Technology Assessment: Evaluating new lighting technologies and configurations for their environmental impact, helping municipalities make informed decisions about lighting upgrades.
- Economic Analysis: Documenting the financial costs of light pollution — wasted energy, healthcare costs, lost tourism revenue — to build the economic case for action.
Collaborations
We collaborate with leading institutions including the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA), the Astronomical Society of India (ASI), and various university departments across the country. We participate in global research initiatives and contribute Indian data to worldwide light pollution monitoring programs.
Citizen Science
We encourage everyone to participate in light pollution research through citizen science programs. Using simple tools and smartphone apps, volunteers can measure and report local night sky brightness, contributing valuable data to our growing database of light pollution levels across India.
Resources
We regularly publish articles, reports, and educational materials on light pollution. Our resources are freely available for educators, policymakers, lighting professionals, and the general public. If you are conducting research related to light pollution and would like to collaborate, please contact us at info@savedarkness.org.