Night Earth

Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France

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Lyon and Genève and France-Switzerland-Italy borders seen from the ISS
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Lyon is a city located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France, and is the third largest city in the country, with a population of over 515,695 inhabitants as of 2021. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, Lyon has a lot to offer its residents and visitors alike. However, the city is also known for its light pollution, which can impact the beauty of its night lights.

One of the factors that contributes to light pollution in Lyon is the city's dense urban population. With so many people living in a relatively small area, there are a lot of buildings and other sources of light that can cause the night sky to be obscured. Additionally, Lyon is home to a number of large businesses and industries, including pharmaceuticals, biotech, and information technology. These industries often require a lot of artificial light for their operations, which can add to the city's overall light pollution.

Despite the challenges posed by light pollution, Lyon is still a beautiful city at night. One of the most iconic landmarks of the city is the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, which sits atop a hill overlooking the city. At night, the basilica is illuminated, casting a warm, golden glow over the surrounding area. The Saône River that runs through the city is also a popular spot for nighttime strolls, as its calm waters reflect the lights of the city, creating a shimmering, almost magical effect.

Other notable landmarks in Lyon that are worth seeing at night include the Place Bellecour, which is the largest pedestrian square in Europe and is home to a statue of Louis XIV; the Place des Terreaux, which is home to the Hôtel de Ville and the famous Bartholdi Fountain; and the Musée des Confluences, which is a stunning museum of natural history and anthropology that is housed in a striking, modern building.

Despite its light pollution, Lyon has taken steps to reduce its impact on the environment and the night sky. For example, the city has implemented a lighting plan that aims to reduce the amount of light pollution by improving the efficiency of its streetlights and using more directional lighting to reduce glare. Additionally, Lyon participates in Earth Hour, a global event in which cities around the world turn off their lights for one hour to raise awareness about energy conservation and climate change.

Lyon is a beautiful city with a rich history and vibrant culture. Its night lights are certainly affected by light pollution, which is caused by its dense urban population and the presence of large businesses and industries. However, despite these challenges, Lyon remains a popular destination for tourists and a great place to call home.