Al-Hillah is a city in the Babil Governorate of Iraq, located about 100 kilometers south of Baghdad. The city has a population of approximately 460,000 people, making it one of the larger cities in Iraq. Al-Hillah is a historically significant city, having been the site of several important battles during the Iraq War, and was also the location of the ancient city of Babylon.
At night, the city is bathed in a yellow-orange glow, a result of the light pollution from the streetlights and buildings. The level of light pollution in Al-Hillah is estimated to be relatively high, with a sky brightness of around 20 mag/arcsec2. This is due to the fact that the city has a high population density, and many of the buildings and structures are lit up at night.
One of the most significant contributors to the light pollution in Al-Hillah is the widespread use of high-pressure sodium (HPS) lamps in streetlights and other outdoor lighting fixtures. HPS lamps are known for their yellow-orange light output, which contributes to the overall color of the city's night sky. Additionally, many of the buildings in the city are lit up with bright, white LED lights, which also contribute to the overall level of light pollution.
Despite the high level of light pollution, there are still some notable landmarks and features of the city that are visible at night. The most prominent of these is the Al-Mutawakkil Mosque, which is located in the city center and is illuminated by a large number of floodlights. The mosque is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, and its brightly-lit dome can be seen from miles away.
Another prominent feature of the city's night sky is the nearby Euphrates River, which runs through Al-Hillah and is lit up by streetlights along its banks. The river is an important source of water for the city, and is also a popular destination for fishing and boating.
In terms of the habits of the people living in Al-Hillah, the city is a bustling urban center with a vibrant nightlife. Many of the streets and public areas are crowded with people at all hours of the night, and there is a thriving market district that operates late into the evening. The city is also home to several universities and other institutions of higher learning, which attract a large number of young people and students.
In terms of industry, Al-Hillah is home to several large factories and manufacturing facilities, which contribute to the city's economy and provide employment for many of its residents. The most significant of these is the Babil Governorate Cement Plant, which produces large quantities of cement for use in construction projects throughout Iraq.
Overall, Al-Hillah is a vibrant and bustling city with a rich history and culture. While its high level of light pollution may detract from the natural beauty of the night sky, it is nevertheless a testament to the city's energy and vitality. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor from abroad, there is always something to see and do in Al-Hillah, both during the day and at night.