The night skies in Baja are an incredible sight for those of us who live under the luminous fog of light pollution. All photos are from my family albums.
Our ancestors lived under a brilliant sky where the Milky Way was bright enough to cast shadows on the ground. . The stars were essential tools for navigation and agriculture. The rising of specific constellations signaled when to plant crops or move herds.
There was no "separation" from nature at night. The cosmos was as present to them as the trees or the soil.
Over 80% of the world's population lives under light-polluted skies, and for many in urban areas, the Milky Way is entirely invisible. There are many children who have never seen the Milky Way.
Many animals depend on darkness. Sea turtles are led away from the ocean by city lights, and migratory birds lose their way. Even humans suffer, as excessive nighttime light suppresses melatonin, disrupting sleep patterns.
Notice the meteor (shooting star) at the left of the photo. I only can wish that I could walk out my door at night and see skies that look like this!
Do you live where you can see the stars at night?
