Cégep de Sherbrooke

Published purpose

Light pollution occurs when Artificial Light at Night (ALAN) is emitted into the environment at levels and/or at times that have a disturbing impact on it. Several studies have established statistical links between ALAN and the risk associated with certain diseases such as hormone-sensitive cancers (HSC). Recent studies based on colour images taken by astronauts on the International Space Station demonstrate that the blue component of light is strongly linked to the occurrence of HSC. The main objectives of the project include developing an ALAN remote sensing technique from the stratosphere, refining the analysis of data acquired on the ground, validating the remote sensing method, and using the remote sensing data in a digital model in order to identify the associated risks to the health of Canadians. Stratospheric remote sensing enables the measurement of large areas within a short timeframe. These measurements will be made on board flights of stratospheric balloons, while field measurements will be made by placing the ALANcube (a device developed by the project team) on a motorized vehicle traversing the territory overflown by the balloon.