Shepherdstown Hosts Dark Sky Advocate to Tackle Light Pollution
Protecting the night sky: Advocate discusses practical solutions to light pollution
The Journal | Monday, January 13, 2025
At the Robert C. Byrd Center in Shepherdstown, local advocate Jesse Melton, representing Bolivar-Harpers Ferry DarkSky, addressed the urgent issue of light pollution, highlighting its detrimental impact on visibility of celestial bodies and the health of ecosystems. Melton, whose interest in astronomy was sparked by his father, emphasized that 99% of Americans live under light-polluted skies, which disrupts natural cycles and can lead to various health issues. He shared practical steps individuals can take to reduce light pollution and promote responsible outdoor lighting, ultimately preserving the night sky for future generations and ensuring a healthier environment.