Arizona’s Night Lighting Regulations Facilitating Astronomical Observation

Abstract

Given the many world-class telescopes in Arizona, there are plenty of opportunities for astronomy experiments in the state. Because astronomical activities have a huge economic value, it is important that Arizona’s ordinances support the sky clarity necessary for astronomical observation. Human industrialization and other cultural developments have brightened the night sky--hindering astronomical observation activities. During the last century, cities and counties in Arizona began to enact lighting ordinances to maintain the night air conditions that are necessary to accommodate astronomical labs. Though they all have the same goal of maintaining a sufficiently dark sky for observatory telescopes, these ordinances take different approaches. This comment briefly introduces and compares the relevant ordinances of Pima County (Tucson), Maricopa County (Phoenix), and Coconino County (Flagstaff) and gives suggestions to enhance the efforts to promote night sky clarity.