Dark Sky Simulator: Light Pollution Mitigation Modeling for Alachua County Environmental Protection

The Dark Sky Simulator is an interactive web application designed to visualize the current state of light pollution in Alachua County and model the quantitative benefits of implementing Dark Sky-friendly lighting policies. The platform combines real-time light pollution mapping with a comprehensive simulation engine that allows users to test various mitigation strategies including fixture shielding requirements, correlated color temperature limits, intensity reductions, and lighting curfews. Users can define custom areas of interest and immediately see both visual and quantitative results, including improvements in Bortle Scale classifications and progress toward International Dark Sky certification requirements. The application provides critical decision-making tools for policymakers and environmental advocates by calculating implementation costs, projected annual savings, and payback periods for different lighting strategies. By modeling proven approaches from successful Dark Sky communities like Groveland, Florida and Flagstaff, Arizona, the simulator demonstrates potential pathways for Alachua County to reduce light pollution while maintaining public safety and economic viability. The tool serves as both an educational resource and practical planning instrument, enabling evidence-based policy development that can protect the dark skies above natural areas like Paynes Prairie while improving astronomical visibility throughout the region.