Posted on

Study of the Current and Ongoing Effects of the Operation of the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport: Appendix A, Section 10 – Light

Document Library
Studies
Stantec

This section of a 2020 study examines how the operation of Seattle-Tacoma International Airport affects nighttime light conditions in surrounding communities, using satellite imagery data collected between 1998 and 2018. Researchers analyzed 'skyglow' — light pollution caused by electric fixtures and light reflected off surfaces like roads and parking lots — across the broader Central Puget Sound region. The study notes that nighttime light emission readings can vary by 15–20% due to factors such as weather, seasonal vegetation, and imaging conditions, and it identifies specific light fixture types that contribute most to sky glow.

Open full document

Notes

Stantec-authored Appendix A, Section 10 of the Department of Commerce 2019 Sea-Tac Airport Communities Impact Study, dated 29 May 2020. Covers nighttime light emissions and sky glow associated with Seattle-Tacoma International Airport operations, using NOAA/DMSP satellite data (1992–2013) and VIIRS DNB data (2012–2018) processed via lighttrends.lightpollutionmap.info. Analyzes light intrusion across the study area including Burien, SeaTac, Tukwila, Normandy Park, Des Moines, and Federal Way. Discusses BUG (Backlight, Uplight, Glare) fixture rating system, sources of skyglow including direct emissions and reflected light from roadways and parking lots, and data variation factors of 15–20% from imaging angle, moonlight, aerosols, and other conditions.

Sidebar On/Off
V V