Measurement and comparison of light pollution through luminance using a digital single lens reflex (DSLR) camera in Manila and Baguio

Abstract

Light pollution occurs when a disproportionate amount of artificial light from the ground is scattered into the atmosphere, effectively reducing the visibility of stars in the night sky. We measured light pollution by using luminance readings derived from digital photographs and a calibration equation formulated by Hiscocks with the pixel value, aperture, exposure time, ISO sensitivity, and a predetermined calibration constant. Data gathering was done in Baguio City and Manila City at specified times of the night. In conclusion, the method for attaining luminance values is doable especially for young researchers. Additionally, the brightness of the sky reduces as night progresses and the factors cloud cover and artificial light increase luminance. Manila and Baguio, at the specified points in which the data were gathered, rank 8, City Sky, out of 9 levels on the Bortle Scale. We recommend for future studies to collect data over longer time periods so that the factors can be controlled. Further research on the topic may also delve on other fields such as energy, ecology, and human health.