Night Earth

Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada

Loading map...

Whitehorse is a small city located in the Yukon territory of Canada. It is the capital of the territory and the largest city in the area, with a population of approximately 26,000 people. The city is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, including the Yukon River, which runs through the center of town, and the nearby mountains, which provide a stunning backdrop to the city.

One of the most striking features of Whitehorse is its night lights. The city is known for its vibrant and colorful lights that illuminate the city skyline at night. However, these lights also contribute to light pollution, which can have negative impacts on the environment and human health.

The amount of light pollution in Whitehorse is estimated to be moderate, with the brightest areas concentrated in the city center and along major roads. The light pollution levels vary depending on the time of year, with winter nights typically being the brightest due to the long periods of darkness.

One of the main factors contributing to light pollution in Whitehorse is the city's size and population. Although it is relatively small compared to other cities, Whitehorse is the largest settlement in the Yukon territory and is home to a significant portion of the population. This means that there is a relatively high demand for lighting in the city, which can lead to excess light pollution.

Another factor that contributes to light pollution in Whitehorse is the city's industry. The city is home to a number of mining operations and other industrial activities, which require large amounts of lighting for safety and operational purposes. This lighting can contribute significantly to the overall level of light pollution in the city.

Despite the potential negative impacts of light pollution, the people of Whitehorse are proud of their city's night lights. Many residents enjoy taking evening walks and admiring the colorful lights that illuminate the city. Additionally, the lights play an important role in the city's tourism industry, attracting visitors from around the world who come to see the Northern Lights and other natural wonders.

Some of the most famous landmarks in Whitehorse are illuminated at night, including the S.S. Klondike National Historic Site, a restored steamship that played a vital role in the Yukon Gold Rush. Other notable landmarks include the Yukon Beringia Interpretive Centre, which showcases the natural and cultural history of the region, and the Takhini Hot Springs, a popular destination for visitors looking to relax and unwind.

Whitehorse is a small city in the Yukon territory of Canada known for its vibrant night lights. While these lights contribute to the city's beauty and tourism industry, they also contribute to light pollution, which can have negative impacts on the environment and human health. Factors such as the city's size, population, and industry all play a role in the amount of light pollution in the city. However, despite these challenges, the people of Whitehorse continue to take pride in their city and its night lights.