Detection and Assessment of Light Pollution in Erzurum City Using Ground-Based and Satellite Data

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Abstract
This study examines the spatial and temporal dynamics of light pollution in Erzurum, Türkiye, by integrating satellite-based VIIRS Night-time Light (NTL) data with ground-based Sky Quality Meter (SQM) observations. A logarithmic regression model was developed to quantify the relationship between radiance and SQM readings at 25 locations in 2021, revealing a strong correlation (R² = 0.722). This confirms that satellite data reliably represent measurements taken directly on-site. By applying the model to VIIRS datasets from 2014, 2021, and January 2025, spatial maps were produced to visualize the increasing trend of artificial lighting. Change detection analysis revealed substantial radiance growth, particularly in the northern and southeastern urban areas. These findings underscore the escalating impact of light pollution and highlight the urgent need for effective mitigation strategies.

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