The night sky has captivated humans for millennia, offering a canvas of stars, planets, and celestial wonders. However, in recent years, our ability to gaze upon this natural spectacle has been compromised by an ever-increasing problem: light pollution.

Light pollution is a complex issue, encompassing overspill, sky glow, and nuisance light, and it has far-reaching consequences, from impacting human health to wasting energy and obscuring our view of the universe. Fortunately, organisations like DarkSky International are working diligently to combat this issue and restore the natural beauty of our night skies.

DarkSky is an international organisation dedicated to the preservation and restoration of the natural state of the night sky. They address the adverse effects of light pollution by advocating for responsible outdoor lighting practices, educating the public, and promoting dark sky-friendly lighting solutions. One of the critical components of their mission is the certification of lighting fixtures as DarkSky approved luminaires, which play a pivotal role in reducing light pollution.

Light pollution is a multifaceted problem. It includes:

• Overspill: Light spilling beyond its intended target area.
• Sky Glow: The brightening of the night sky over populated areas, obscuring celestial objects.
• Nuisance Light: Unwanted or intrusive light causing discomfort or disturbance.

The consequences of light pollution are significant, ranging from detrimental effects on human health to unnecessary economic expenditure. Moreover, light pollution robs us of the awe-inspiring experience of gazing up at the stars and exploring the mysteries of the cosmos. This is where DarkSky approved luminaires come into play.

Kingfisher Lighting and DarkSky Approved Luminaires

Kingfisher Lighting have taken a proactive approach to address the issue of light pollution. By working to DarkSky International guidance, we have developed a range of DarkSky approved luminaires. These innovative lighting solutions adhere to the stringent criteria ensuring that they can be used in Dark Sky Areas without exacerbating light pollution.

One of our notable products is the AMNIS Series – a powerful flood light collection perfect for illuminating sports and high mast locations. This luminaire is also flicker-free and HDTV broadcasting ready for televised events.

We also offer the SEMITA Arc and Urban – contemporary wall packs providing perfect illumination for building perimeters. Available in 2700K, this range is ideal for DarkSky areas.

The VIVA-CITY Pro and Flood family consists of both flood and street lanterns. The flat-to-ground luminaires have varying colour temperature selections to create a harmonious aesthetic across sites.

Our DarkSky approved luminaires were specifically created to address the widespread problem of light pollution. By adhering to these criteria, we have demonstrated a commitment to responsible outdoor lighting practices and the preservation of our natural night skies.

As society becomes more aware of the consequences of light pollution and the importance of preserving the beauty of the night sky, DarkSky approved luminaires serve as beacons of hope. They allow us to enjoy the benefits of outdoor lighting without compromising our view of the universe and its celestial wonders. Kingfisher Lighting's dedication to this cause, in conjunction with DarkSky International, is a testament to the positive change that can occur when innovative technology and environmental consciousness intersect.

In conclusion, DarkSky approved luminaires represent a significant step forward in the fight against light pollution. By adhering to strict criteria, they reduce overspill, glare, overlighting, and the emission of short-wavelength light, thereby preserving the natural state of our night sky. With companies like Kingfisher Lighting leading the way, we can look forward to a future where the brilliance of the cosmos can once again be appreciated by all.

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