Search the heavens for lockdown impact

RESIDENTS in Stockport have been helping a charity to count the stars and help map the sky to reveal lockdown’s impact on light pollution.

CPRE, the countryside charity, has been asking people living in Stockport to count stars from their garden or window as part of its annual nationwide star count.

Residents were asked to record their view of the night sky from February 6-14.

By counting the number of stars they see in the Orion constellation, citizen scientists will help map the best and worst places in England to enjoy a star-filled night sky.

The data will then be compared with 2020’s findings, gathered before coronavirus restrictions took hold, to see whether lockdown has had an impact on light pollution.

Last year 61 per cent of participants suffered from severe light pollution and scientists say it will be interesting to see if lockdown has meant a reduction in pollution.

Crispin Truman, chief executive of CPRE, said: “A starry night sky is one of the most magical sights the countryside can offer, connecting us to the nature we all love and the wonders of the wider universe.

“Dark skies are also crucial for our health and for that of wildlife.

“Lockdown and the coronavirus have reminded us about how good for us the countryside can be.

“But many places suffer from light pollution, bleaching out the night sky. We want to change this.”

Light pollution means many people only experience a limited view of the night sky, and it also disrupts wildlife’s natural patterns.

By showing where people’s views are most affected by light pollution, CPRE hope to use the evidence in crucial lobbying efforts to protect and enhance the skies of Greater Manchester.

The charity is working with the British Astronomical Association’s Commission for Dark Skies to find indications of light pollution levels across the country.