Events › Dark Sky Celebration

In partnership with the Borrego Dark Sky Coalition

Borrego Springs is the first California community designated an International Dark Sky Community in 2009. Today, we continue to honor and uphold this tradition. Celebrate local businesses for their lighting improvements and hear from two experts on ways to deepen our appreciation for the stars that illuminate our desert’s dark night sky.

Stars Can’t Shine Without Darkness Kamala Venkatesh, renowned photographer of Anza-Borrego night skies, will give a talk on her craft. For years, Kamala has educated audiences about light pollution and the importance of keeping skies dark. She will present a collection of her beautiful photos and a brief summary of the fundamentals of night photography, including tips for capturing images of the Milky Way through a camera. Experience the magic of the Milky Way as shown by one of its most devoted photographers.

Through both eyes now: Using binoculars to enjoy the night sky John Garrett, an experienced illustrator and Temecula Valley astronomer, has spent years exploring the wonders of the night sky with binoculars. He has gained extensive knowledge and a notable binocular collection. John will share lessons learned, introduce favorite models, and offer advice on the best binoculars for stargazing. A highlight will be John’s guide to the most captivating celestial wonders visible in the spring and summer skies—features sure to spark your curiosity and inspire continued exploration of the heavens long after the event.