A Study on Light Pollution around Yokkaichi, Mie, using SQM-L

Abstract

This paper describes the effects of light pollution in the current Yokkaichi area using the Sky Quality Meter with Lens (SQM-L). In addition to following the usual procedures for measurement, the author attached a black covering to the SQM-L to reduce the possibility of light effects in the vicinity, as pointed out by some researchers. This study showed that the impact of light pollution did not reach the level of large cities, although light pollution was present at many points. It is a positive element that some areas will become a better environment by taking appropriate counter-steps. The measurements using a black covering were effective in deriving reliable data. However, the black covering may block light wavelengths to an extreme degree, which may cause the measured value to be darker than the actual value. For further studies, verification from various aspects is necessary, including the material of the covering.