Sakash G. 2024 | BASIS Independent Fremont
- Project Title: The Correlation between Light Pollution and Sleep
- BASIS Independent Advisor: Dr Zeynep Araci
- Internship Location: ASDRP, Fremont
- Onsite Mentor: Dr. Larry Mcmahan
This research project aims to investigate the impact of light pollution on sleep quality. Sleep plays a significant role in our overall health and productivity, and it is therefore important to address factors which could have the potential to affect our sleep quality . In recent years, we can observe a global increase in Artificial Light At Night (ALAN) and its potential role in hindering our sleep quality due to increased urbanization. As a resident of the East Bay, which is a highly urbanized and light polluted region, I seek to understand how varying levels of light pollution influence sleep quality among inhabitants, focusing on regions like Silicon Valley and rural areas. The project essentially aims to determine the extent to which light pollution contributes to sleep disturbances and how strong the relationship between the two is. A primary reason for conducting this research is to draw attention to the significant consequences of light pollution. The methodology that will be used involves surveying diverse populations in areas with varying light pollution levels. I will also be conducting a literature review on light pollution and the factors affecting sleep. The survey includes questions on sleep duration, desired sleep duration, and additional factors influencing the subjects’ sleep quality. By gathering the results of this survey, I aim to establish a correlation between light pollution levels and sleep quality. An anticipated problem would be struggling to reach diverse populations and obtaining sufficient responses, which could potentially lead to delays in data collection. However, I would continue pursuing data collection. A more thorough literature review may be necessary at such a stage to study the relationship between light pollution and sleep quality.