Light Pollution Monitoring Using Remote Sensing Data

Dear Colleagues,

Light pollution has appeared in the list of environmental threats in recent years. Numerous studies have demonstrated the deleterious effects of artificial light at night. Its toxic effects on flora and fauna as well as the threat it represents for astronomical observations is well documented. More recently, studies have shown the potential threat to human health. In addition to these unwanted effects, light pollution is often linked to inefficient use of energy and therefore represents an unnecessary expense. Such an unnecessary expense has side effects on climate change. In fact, for a large part of the planet, the required energy is produced using fossil fuels.

To properly monitor the spatial and temporal evolution of this new type of pollution, it is essential to develop suitable remote sensing methods. Several approaches are currently being explored in this direction. These approaches include the use of available satellite data, the use of images taken by astronauts from the international space station, and the use of stratospheric balloons observation platforms along with airborne platforms such as drones or airplanes. At the same time, many techniques have been developed for ground-based remote sensing of light pollution. Ground detection networks are being implemented with a variety of approaches.

Among the main challenges to be met is the detection of the spectral properties of light pollution. Its spectral properties are of crucial importance with regard to their effects on living organisms. In this Special Edition, we want to bring together the most recent advances made in the remote sensing of light pollution using spaceborne, airborne, and ground-based devices. We expect such a collection of works to foster new developments in this relatively new field of research.

Prof. Martin Aubé
Guest Editor

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