Last of a six-part series on the ways technology moulded modem cities. Bright Lights, Big City. The battle to liberate cities from nightfall, which closed down industries and provided coverfor crime, has been waged since the late 18th century. The flickering gas lamps of Victorian Britain were superseded by brighter electric streetlights, and a new neon landsape was created. But with it came a new problem - what are the consequences oftoo much light, or light "pollution"? Does it really matter if the stars in the night sky are no longer visible?
Producers Frank Prendergast , Antony Woodward