There could be several reasons why you might perceive fewer stars in the sky at night compared to when you were a child. Here are a few possible explanations:
Light pollution: In many areas, artificial lighting from streetlights, buildings, and other sources has increased over time. This light pollution can scatter in the atmosphere and create a glow that obscures the visibility of stars. If you live in or near a heavily populated area, the increased artificial lighting can make it more difficult to see the stars clearly.
Atmospheric conditions: The clarity of the night sky can vary depending on atmospheric conditions such as humidity, dust, and air pollution. If the air is hazy or polluted, it can reduce the visibility of stars and make them appear fainter or less numerous.
Seasonal and geographic factors: The visibility of stars can also be influenced by the time of year and your location on Earth. Certain stars and constellations may only be visible during specific seasons or from particular latitudes. Additionally, factors like weather patterns and cloud cover can affect your ability to see stars on any given night.
Personal perception: It's also possible that your perception of the night sky has changed over time. As we grow older, our memories and perceptions can become skewed or altered. It's possible that you remember the night sky as being fuller of stars during your childhood, but in reality, the number of stars may not have changed significantly.
While these factors can contribute to the perception of fewer stars in the night sky, it's important to note that the actual number of stars in the universe has not decreased. In areas with less light pollution, such as rural or remote locations, you can still witness the beauty of a star-filled sky.