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For
many New Yorkers, the energy of the city evokes feelings of
excitement and anticipation which draws them in. But for astronomers
the enduring glow is an obstacle and considered pollution.
"Most
people don't consider light to be a form of pollution since
it's isn't harmful, but astronomers are plagued by it," says
Sam Gelman, professor of astronomy at Hunter
College in New York City. "Areas that were once 'dark
sky' locations are increasingly being encroached upon by unshielded
outdoor lighting."
The problem of light pollution is so extreme in New York City
that the Milky Way has not been viewed in the city since Ulysses
S. Grant was president, according to the Columbia
University department of astronomy.
Beyond just this main frustration, astronomers in the city
also struggle with the overall issue of air pollution. Smoke,
engine exhaust, and dust all work to obscure the night sky,
says Gelman. Even the heat given off by the buildings and
cars contribute to the unsteadiness of the air that today
allows astronomers and amateurs to view only the brightest
stars and planets from locations within the city limits.
The
basic structure of Manhattan with its tall buildings concentrated
in relatively tight quarters creates an obstruction for viewing
the horizon as well as a significant portions of the sky,
said Gelman. Combine this with the constant flow of air traffic,
amateurs and professionals can easily mistake a radio tower
or the blinking lights on a jet preparing to land at LaGuardia
for a star.
These problems often drive many dedicated and determined stargazers
to seek other locations outside the city in Long Island or
parts of New Jersey.
Though the conditions limit the viewing opportunities, the
astronomy departments at Columbia University and Hunter College
survive in New York City since the scientists and academics
at these institutions conduct their research outside of the
city.
These professionals travel regularly to observatories in more
ideal locations such as the desert or mountain ranges. After
collecting their research, these astronomers then return to
their New York offices.
Despite the hurdles, Gelman still admits that on a clear night
a person could view the moon, some of the planets, even some
brighter stars without a telescope.
"A few years ago, Comet Hale-Bopp was bright enough to be
seen from midtown Manhattan," says Gelman.
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Places
to Watch Stars in NYC
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Hayden
Planetarium, Manhattan
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Andrus
Planetarium, Yonkers
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Vanderbilt
Planetarium, Long Island
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Van
Cortland Park, the Bronx
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Carl
Schurz Park, Manhattan
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Floyd
Bennett Field, Brooklyn
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Great
Kills, Staten Island
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Empire
State Building, observation deck, Manhattan
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The
Hayden Planetarium located on 81st Street and Central
Park West reopened in February 2000 and once again provides
another alternative for star gazing in New York City.
PHOTO:
Stephen Lucey |
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The
Other AAA
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For more than 70 years, the Amateur
Astronomy Association
in New York City has brought together individuals
who share a common passion and enjoy sharing their
interests in astronomy with others. Since its first
meeting on May 10, 1927, the association focused on
getting members outdoors to observe the stars. The
AAA has grown into more than just a collection of
stargazers. Today the organization sponsors classes
and seminars at its headquarters on Park Avenue that
allow its more than 350 members to learn the basics
of astronomy and observation techniques. In addition,
the group also organizes monthly gatherings at locations
throughout the five boroughs.
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