In West Texas, astronomers worry about growing oilfield light pollution

Jul 9, 2021
A major Texas observatory is trying to convince oil and gas companies to minimize light pollution from drilling rigs and gas plants.
A view of McDonald Observatory in West Texas. Astronomers have grown concerned about light pollution from oilfield activity in the region, and the observatory has worked to educate companies on alternative “dark sky-friendly” lighting methods.
Damond Benningfield/McDonald Observatory

California to flip the switch in the new year and phase out incandescent light bulbs

Dec 25, 2017
Light bulbs sold in the state will need to be three times more energy efficient than the old incandescent bulb.

Why the incandescent light bulb will be missed

Dec 19, 2013
Incandescent light bulbs are banned as of Jan. 1, and lots of people will miss them.

New LED light bulb lasts 20 years, sets you back $60

Apr 23, 2012
Just in time for Earth Day, Philips unveils a top-notch LED light bulb replacement for your 60-watters -- at a top-notch price.

Easy-Bake Oven: The light bulb wars hit home

Dec 27, 2011
It takes more than a compact fluorescent to make cookies. How a childhood favorite could suffer from the new light bulb laws.

A step backward on energy-efficient lighting

Dec 16, 2011
After industry agreed to the terms of making more efficient light bulbs widely available, Congress has back tracked on enforcing the law.

Budget deal: Keep incandescent light bulbs on a little longer

Dec 16, 2011
A deal to avoid government shutdown was reached in Washington yesterday, but one of the provisions of the deal means that new laws surrounding light bulbs won't be enforced for the time being.

For public good, not for profit.

MIDDAY UPDATE: Oil prices, energy efficient light bulbs

Jan 5, 2011
Increasing oil prices could end the global economic recovery, according to Fatin Birol, chief economist at the International Energy Agency. Birol...

MID-DAY UPDATE: Obama's top economic policy adviser leaving- now what?

Sep 22, 2010
White House National Economic Council director Larry Summers will return to Harvard at the end of the year. Who might replace him and what does...