Spring Equinox

Today marks the Spring Equinox, a pivotal moment in Earth's orbit around the Sun. This tilt of the Earth's axis away from the normal plane of its orbit is responsible for the seasonal variations in the Sun's trajectory, leading to what is known as the angle of declination.

The Sun stands as the primary source of light on our planet, generously providing approximately 100,000 Lux on cloudless days, vital for visibility and sustaining the Earth's ecosystems. Contrasting this natural brilliance, typical street lighting systems offer a significantly lower illumination level. In the United Kingdom, for instance, residential street lighting typically ranges between 3 to 5 lux, a fraction of the Sun's luminosity.

Yet, the significance of well-designed and regulated outdoor lighting should not be overlooked. It plays a crucial role in social and economic sustainability, enabling continued activity long after sunset, especially as our towns and cities transition towards 24-hour economies. This extended functionality contributes to enhanced productivity and leisure opportunities, underscoring the importance of thoughtful outdoor lighting design in modern urban environments.