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Globe at Night

    How to Help Scientists Collect Data?

    Step 1

    Visit SciStarter.org/library and select this kit for an online version of these instructions, how-to videos, and other resources. This is also where you can create your free SciStarter account (optional) if you haven’t already.

    SciStarter is an online citizen science hub connecting
    millions of people from all walks of life to thousands of
    opportunities to participate in citizen science.

    Step 2

    Choose a clear night when the moon is not up and when you can go outside at least an hour after sunset. Decide if you will be using the Globe at Night Data Entry Sheet or a device with Wi-Fi or cellular data service to directly enter your data at SciStarter.org/LightPollution.

    Step 3

    Use the red LED flashlight to guide you outside if needed. Red light is less disruptive to your night vision than other types of light. Bring the kit with you, including your phone, tablet, or the data worksheet and a pencil (so you can use the data
    sheet multiple times). Allow your eyes to adjust to the night sky, and then use the planisphere to find a constellation.

    Step 4

    Either online or on the printed Globe at Night Data Entry Sheet, record the date, time, and location. Make a note of the constellation you’re observing and the sky conditions as outlined on the web app or data sheet. Jot down the email address you used to create your SciStarter account, where
    noted at the bottom of the sheet.

    Step 5

    Press the power button on the Sky Quality Meter (don’t face it directly at light such as the moon or a streetlight; review the device’s printed instructions again if needed). The lower the number on the SQM, the higher the light pollution. Write the
    SQM’s serial number and light magnitude number on the data sheet

    Step 6

    If you used the paper data sheet, be sure to enter your data online at SciStarter.org/LightPollution. Don’t forget to include your SciStarter email in the online Globe at Night data input form to get credit for your contributions in your SciStarter
    Dashboard. On the Globe at Night website, you can also review data from around the world!

    Be sure to put all equipment, supplies, and instructions packet back into the bag and return the kit to the library so someone else can contribute.

    Why Do Scientists Study Light Pollution?

    Scientists study light pollution in order to better understand how it impacts the climate and the ecosystem in urban areas. The thousands of lights that illuminate the cities of today have been shown to increase the average air temperature which contributes to the harmful effects of climate change.

    What's in the Kit?

    • 1 sky quality meter (SQM)
    • 1 red LED light flashlight
    • 1 planisphere (stargazing chart)