Outdoor Lighting: Physics, Vision And Perception Now

Glare occurs when a light source is significantly brighter than its background. It causes discomfort glare (annoyance) or disability glare (reduced ability to see). Shielded "full-cutoff" fixtures reduce glare and improve visibility.

Aim for a "wash" of light rather than "spots" to minimize eye fatigue. Outdoor Lighting: Physics, Vision and Perception

Use dimmers, timers, or motion sensors to reduce output when the space is unoccupied. Glare occurs when a light source is significantly

The light reflecting off a surface toward the eye. This is what we actually "see." into a bedroom window).

Light intensity decreases exponentially with distance. In wide outdoor spaces, this necessitates strategic spacing of fixtures to avoid "black holes" between poles.

The human eye adapts differently depending on the available light level.

Light falling where it is not intended (e.g., into a bedroom window).