DarkSky International’s premier astrophotography contest is a celebration of the night and a call to action to protect it from the growth of light pollution.
Each year, photographers from around the world share images that reveal what makes the night extraordinary, from sweeping views of the Milky Way to critters who rely on darkness to survive.
More than a photography contest, Capture the Dark encourages everyone to get out after dark and experience a world at risk of being lost.
Key dates
Photo submissions open: May 1, 2026
Photo submissions close: June 30, 2026
Winners announced: Mid-August 2026
Contest categories
Whether you’re a professional astrophotographer or just beginning to capture the night, Capture the Dark is designed for everyone. With a wide range of categories, including photos taken on mobile devices and smartphones, and a youth category for young astrophotographers, the contest welcomes photographers of all experience levels.
Responsible astrophotography & contest rules
What sets Capture the Dark apart from other astrophotography contests is its commitment not only to celebrating the night, but protecting it. Guided by DarkSky’s Principles for Responsible Astrophotography and the Five Principles for Responsible Outdoor Lighting, submissions must respect the nighttime environment.
Capture the Dark Outreach & Media Kit
Photography as advocacy
Photography has long been a powerful tool for driving change, with a unique ability to connect audiences emotionally to people, places, and ideas.
As light pollution continues to grow at an alarming rate—nearly 10% globally each year—more people than ever are becoming disconnected from the nighttime environment. Each photo submitted to Capture the Dark tells a story that can spark curiosity, build appreciation, and inspire action.
Here’s how you can participate
Submit a photo and vote:
Capture the Dark is not just for professional astrophotographers. With a diverse set of categories, including photos taken on mobile devices and a youth category, the contest invites everyone to get outside after dark, explore, and capture the night. After the submission window closes, the public will also have the opportunity to vote for their favorite image in the People’s Choice Award.
Share the contest with others:
The more people who participate, the more stories we share. Invite others to take part by sharing the contest on social media, posting on community boards or local forums, including it in newsletters, or spreading the word in other ways within your network.
Start conversations that drive action:
Use these photos as an opportunity to start conversations about the importance of the night and to introduce people to solutions that help preserve it, such as:
International Dark Sky Places ↗
DarkSky Approved Outdoor Lighting ↗
DarkSky Approved Outdoor Lighting Codes ↗