While shooting some footage for my upcoming feature-length documentary, currently titled Reclaiming the Night, I was amazed at just how brightly lit the surrounding areas were simply from the glow of Las Vegas, specifically Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area to the west of the city. This photo, which may or may not be used in the final film, illustrates just how bright the lights from Las Vegas are. These mountains are lit up entirely from Las Vegas’ light pollution and the Milky Way Galaxy is a forgotten remnant in the sky.
While the film will ultimately focus on the importance of dark skies, Las Vegas plays a crucial role as the antithesis of what a night sky should look like, the light spilling out and trespassing well beyond the city’s limits. – Read more