Arlington is a city located in the state of Texas, in the United States. It is situated in the north-central part of the state and is a part of the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area. Arlington is the 7th largest city in Texas and the 50th largest city in the United States, with an estimated population of 400,000 people.
One of the most striking features of Arlington at night is the bright glow of the AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys. The stadium is an iconic landmark and its night lights can be seen from miles away, making it a focal point of the city's skyline. Other notable landmarks that contribute to Arlington's night lights include the Globe Life Field, Six Flags Over Texas, and the University of Texas at Arlington.
However, with all of these bright lights comes the issue of light pollution. Light pollution is a phenomenon where artificial light from human activities affects the natural darkness of the night sky. This not only makes it difficult to see stars but can also have negative impacts on wildlife and human health.
Arlington has a moderate level of light pollution, with a sky brightness of about 20-22 mag/arcsec2. This means that while it is not as dark as a rural area, it is also not as bright as some major cities. The main source of light pollution in Arlington comes from its urbanization and large amounts of street lighting. Additionally, the city's close proximity to the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area contributes to the overall light pollution of the region.
The habits of the people living in Arlington also play a role in its light pollution. Many residents have a preference for bright outdoor lighting, which can contribute to the city's overall glow. There is also a significant amount of advertising lighting from businesses and billboards, which adds to the city's overall brightness.
Arlington is also home to a diverse range of industries, including aerospace, automotive, and entertainment. These industries contribute to the city's economy and provide employment opportunities for its residents. However, they also contribute to the overall light pollution of the city, particularly the entertainment industry which relies heavily on bright outdoor lighting.
Arlington is a bustling city with a moderate level of light pollution. While its landmarks and urbanization contribute to its night lights, the habits of its residents and industries also play a significant role. As awareness of light pollution grows, it is important for the city and its residents to find ways to reduce their impact on the natural darkness of the night sky.