Tennis stars play the US open under outdoor lights that do not pollute the air

The US Open Tennis Championships at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York are not just about showcasing the skills of the tennis stars, but also about preserving the environment. The court lights at the complex have been designed to minimize light pollution and protect the surrounding sky.

The wedge-shaped LED lamps around the tennis center direct light onto the players without causing excess light to spill into the sky. This initiative is part of a broader effort to preserve the night sky and protect wildlife from the disruptive effects of artificial lighting.

The USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center is the only professional sports venue certified by Darksky International, an organization dedicated to preserving the night sky. By using LED lights instead of traditional Metal Halogen lamps, the complex has been able to reduce light pollution significantly.

The decision to switch to dark sky-friendly lighting was driven by a desire to balance the needs of spectators and TV crews with the importance of preserving the environment. The USTA officials worked closely with their lighting company to ensure that the new lights would meet both aesthetic and environmental requirements.

In addition to the US Open Tennis Championships, other sports venues and recreational areas have also made efforts to reduce light pollution. By investing in dark sky-friendly lighting, these facilities are not only protecting the night sky but also creating a more sustainable environment for both humans and wildlife.

The cost of implementing dark sky-friendly lighting can be slightly higher than traditional sports lighting, but the long-term benefits far outweigh the initial investment. By choosing environmentally responsible lighting solutions, sports venues can play a significant role in reducing light pollution and preserving the night sky for future generations.

Overall, the efforts to minimize light pollution at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center and other sports venues are a step in the right direction towards creating a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future. By making small changes to their lighting systems, these venues are setting an example for others to follow in the fight against light pollution.