In our rapidly urbanizing world, light pollution has emerged as a pressing environmental issue, affecting ecosystems, health, and cultural heritage. This program offers an in-depth exploration of its causes, effects, and potential solutions. Through engaging lectures and interactive discussions, led by Kent Marts, a dedicated advocate for dark skies, participants will learn about the profound impact of excessive artificial lighting on wildlife and food systems, as well as how it disrupts the natural behaviors of nocturnal animals and pollinators. The link between artificial light at night and sleep disturbances, circadian rhythm disruption, and related health concerns will also be examined, emphasizing the urgent need for awareness and action.

Practical strategies for mitigating light pollution— such as dark-sky-compliant lighting and community initiatives—will empower participants to advocate for change in their own neighborhoods. This program hopes to inspire you to take an active role in protecting the night sky for future generations.

Special Notes

This class will meet in person at the OLLI offices, located at 481 S. Shiloh Drive, Fayetteville, AR 72704. Please read your class reminder email for the exact room location.

Class changes occasionally happen, please watch for (and read) announcements or emails from OLLI regarding your class.

Click on the link below for a Google map shot of our location:

OLLI HQ

Instructor:

Kent Marts

After working in newspapers his entire life, Kent Marts left the field in 2017. He worked in heavy steel fabrication for a year then joined Explore Scientific, a leading optic company focused on astronomy, sports optics, and STEM items. A
lifetime of looking through telescopes at the night sky led him to become involved in protecting the darkness. Kent was a founding member of Sugar Creek Astronomical Society in Bella Vista. Kent joined Arkansas Natural Sky Association and was part of the effort to get the Buffalo National River state part designed as a Dark Sky Park. He has been involved in educating the public and electricity users about the value of dark-sky compliant lighting because of their financial and health-related benefits.

Room: Training Room, 159

Cost:

Tuition $40.00
Member Tuition $25.00

Class | Registration opens Tuesday, February 4, 2025 10:00 AM

Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Arkansas (OLLI). Our mission is to provide a community of adults with a lifelong learning venue that promotes intellectual and cultural growth through exploration and discussion via diverse, high quality and affordable educational programs.

If not a member, don’t worry, you can join by clicking on this Olli membership link. Then create an account, and select your membership type. If at any time you need assistance, please contact us at 479-575-4545 or by email at [email protected]