The submission window for Capture the Dark 2026 is officially open and I am so excited to welcome you back.
This isn't just a photography competition; it’s a contest with a cause. Capture the Dark celebrates the breathtaking beauty of the night while highlighting what we stand to lose to light pollution. Every photo you submit helps tell the story of why our dark skies are a heritage worth protecting.
What’s New This Year:
To make sharing your vision easier, we’ve refreshed capturethedark.darksky.org for seamless mobile browsing. We’ve also introduced Nighttime Adventures, a brand-new category honoring the swimmers, climbers, and trail-seekers who thrive by starlight. It’s a tribute to those who know that the best stories begin when the sun goes down.
Get your lenses ready. We can't wait to see the world through your eyes.
Capture the Dark 2026 Essentials:
- Submission period: May 1st – June 30th (11:59 p.m. PDT).
- Voting period: July 1 – July 31, 2026
- Entries: Submit up to three photos per category.
- Prizes: Win a two-night stay at Under Canvas, a Celestron telescope, a SkyView tent, and more! View full prizes here.
- 9 Categories: From Deep Sky Observations to Young Astrophotographers, explore all categories here.
To stay updated on deadlines and public voting, please subscribe to our mailing list. We’ve also prepared an updated outreach kit with social media graphics so you can share your journey and rally your community for the voting phase!
I also highly recommend reviewing the contest rules and FAQ to ensure your stunning shots meet the judging criteria.
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out at engagement@darksky.org. We can’t wait to see the stories you capture this year!
Embracing the darkness,
Callie Blake
Engagement Manager
DarkSky International