People are being asked to take part in a national star count to see if locking has affected light pollution.
By counting stars inside the Orion constellation, “citizen scientists” will help map the best and worst places in England to enjoy a starry night sky, the reporters said. organizers.
The light pollution information will be used in efforts to achieve darker skies that improve health and wellbeing, protect wildlife, and allow people to enjoy starry nights, said CPRE, the rural charity, and the British Astronomical Society Commission for Dark Sky.
And data from this year’s annual survey will be compared with the 2020 results to see what impact lockouts, if any, had.
Last year’s star count, which occurred before coronavirus restrictions took place, showed that 61% of participants lived with severe light pollution.
To take part, people just have to look up from their garden, balcony, porch or bedroom in February 6-14 2021, during a clear night and count how many stars inside the Orion constel they can see.
CPRE chief executive Crispin Truman said: “The starry night sky is one of the most magical sights the country can offer, connecting us to the nature we all love and the wonders of the universe. .
“Dark skies are also vital to our health and the health of wildlife. Lockdown and the coronavirus have reminded us how good the country is for us to be. ”
He said many areas were suffering from light pollution “blowing out the night sky”, but that the campaign group was aiming to change that.
“By taking part in star-counting, people will be helping us to lobby the Government to give more protection to this often-overlooked but vital part of our country.” he said.
Bob Mizon, UK co-ordinator, British Astronomical Society Commission for Dark Skies, said: “Turning the tide of light pollution into dark night sky and improvements in people’s wellbeing, wildlife and the environment. environment.
“CPRE star counting is an important part of this work, especially in these unusual times when we have the opportunity to see if changes in our activities are having a positive impact on the atmosphere and our view of the sky. night. ”