Night Earth

Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa

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Johannesburg and Pretoria, South Africa seen from the ISS
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Johannesburg, also known as Joburg or Jozi, is the largest city in South Africa and the capital of Gauteng province. It is situated on the Highveld plateau and has an estimated population of around 5.7 million people. Johannesburg is one of the most important cities in South Africa, economically and culturally, with a bustling cityscape, lively nightlife, and many interesting landmarks.

One of the most striking features of Johannesburg's nightscape is its light pollution. Due to the city's large population and numerous commercial, industrial, and residential areas, the amount of artificial light emitted from streetlights, buildings, and billboards is considerable. The city's light pollution affects not only the view of the night sky but also the natural behavior of animals, such as birds and insects, who rely on natural light cycles.

The major sources of light pollution in Johannesburg are the streetlights and buildings. Most of the streetlights in Johannesburg are high-pressure sodium lamps, which emit a yellow-orange light that is not only inefficient but also contributes significantly to light pollution. Buildings, especially high-rise structures, also contribute to light pollution, with their lights visible from a long distance.

One of the most iconic landmarks in Johannesburg is the Hillbrow Tower, a 269-meter-high concrete tower located in the suburb of Hillbrow. The tower is illuminated at night and can be seen from most parts of the city, making it a prominent feature in Johannesburg's skyline. Other notable landmarks in the city include the Nelson Mandela Bridge, which spans over the Braamfontein railway yards, and the 50-story Carlton Centre, which is the tallest building in Africa.

Johannesburg's nightlife is also a significant contributor to its light pollution. The city has a vibrant music scene, with many nightclubs and bars open until the early hours of the morning. The most popular nightlife areas in Johannesburg are Melville, Sandton, and Rosebank, with a wide range of venues catering to different tastes and budgets. However, the high energy consumption of these establishments, along with their bright signage and lighting, contributes to the city's overall light pollution.

In terms of industry, Johannesburg has a diversified economy, with significant contributions from mining, manufacturing, finance, and retail. The city is home to several large shopping malls, such as the Sandton City and Eastgate shopping centers, which attract many shoppers and tourists. However, the bright lighting used in these malls, along with their parking lots and surrounding areas, adds to the city's light pollution.

Johannesburg is a bustling metropolis with a vibrant nightlife and numerous landmarks. However, the city's light pollution is a significant concern, affecting not only the view of the night sky but also the natural behavior of animals. The primary sources of light pollution in Johannesburg are the streetlights, buildings, nightlife establishments, and shopping malls. Despite the negative effects of light pollution, efforts are underway to reduce its impact through the use of more efficient lighting technologies and responsible urban planning.