Infrared Surveillance — Security Without Continuous Visible Lighting

This July 2026 Axis Communications white paper explains how surveillance cameras can use near-infrared (IR) illumination to produce usable video in very dark or completely dark environments without relying on conventional white security lighting. Axis notes that IR illumination is particularly useful where visible lighting would be intrusive; commonly used 850 nm IR LEDs may produce a faint red glow, while 940 nm illumination further reduces visible glow.

If the Horse Creek facility requires nighttime security cameras, this technology shows that bright visible floodlighting is not the only option. Residents could ask Black Hills Energy to use IR-capable surveillance, targeted lighting, and other low-impact security measures wherever practical to reduce unnecessary nighttime light and preserve the area's dark-sky character.

Official Federal Agency Reference