The present and fliture effect of artificial illumination on ground-based optical astronomical observations in California and Arizona is discussed. It is concluded that the effectiveness of all major observatories in these states is presently or potentially limited by light pollution. Consequently, it is essential that immediate efforts be undertaken to: (1) Control outdoor illumination to lengthen the useflil life of existing observatory sites, and (2) Identif and protect the best remaining sites both within and outside the United States. The characteristics and probable locations of the best sites for ground-based optical astronomical observations are discussed.
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Merle F. Walker (1973) studied this question.