The city of Flagstaff, Arizona, has been addressing the problem of light pollution for almost 60 years. The International Dark-Sky Association has lauded its commitment to dimmed light-emitting diode (LED) illumination and reduced levels of unnecessary artificial lighting. In January of 2017, the Lowell Observatory released images that show the results of these efforts.
According to the US National Park Service, Flagstaff emits significantly less artificial light than cities of similar size. As compared to Cheyenne, Wyoming, the city's emissions are 14 times less intense. In addition, images show that a rainbow of light stretching from Phoenix to Fort Collins, Colorado, becomes significantly dimmer around Flagstaff.
Experts note that these lower levels of light not only make it easier to stargaze but also help to preserve the natural flow of ecosystems. Insects remain plentiful as food for larger fauna, while bird migrations align better with natural patterns.