Light pollution brightens Earth's night sky, with the United States showing the most significant increase

Earth's night sky has brightened by 16% between 2014 and 2022 due to artificial light pollution. This trend shows nights are gradually becoming brighter worldwide. A new study published in Nature analyzed satellite images, finding that while global light pollution is increasing, regional trends vary. The United States had the highest total luminosity in 2022. Researchers also noted decreases in light pollution in areas affected by conflict, such as the Russia-Ukraine war, which caused European nights to darken. Light pollution negatively impacts wildlife and human health.