Earth Hour vs Light Pollution

[MortonH]

As was mentioned on another thread, it seems unfortunate to us astronomers that earth hour takes place on a night with a nearly full moon.

I was wondering if anyone where I live would be taking part. However, there is a music festival across the road in Centennial Park right now, and they have spotlights shining into the sky. Guess they didn't get the message, or will they switch off all their gear between 7:30 and 8:30pm??? Certainly there is no real opportunity to make a clear connection between excessive lighthing and viewing the night sky.

Anyway, since earth hour starts in less than 25 minutes, I've got the scope on the balcony to have my first look at the moon with it. I reckon that Luna will disappear round the side of the building around 8:30pm, at which time I will switch back on the minimum electrical appliances I need to watch a DVD with my wife.

Hope you are all enjoying some darkness tonight.

Morton

[GeoffW1 (Geoff)]

Hi,

I got set up in the backyard, and duly turned our lights off, went outside hoping for a difference with my 8" Dob, but there was none perceptible really, since the skies were clear with a bright moon.

Under these conditions I can still look at doubles though, so that is the program tonight.

GeoffW1

[norm]

Hi Morton,

Any idea was the concert was about. I went there is arvo and 1/2 the damn park was cordoned off. and crowds gathering en mass! Not happy Jan!