Five Area Businesses Join Effort to Preserve Our Night Sky

By Emily Howard

October 19, 2026

For many visitors to Far West Texas, the stars above are as much an attraction as the rugged landscape below. In an effort to preserve this natural resource, five businesses in the local hospitality industry are among the latest to adopt lighting that keeps the night sky dark. Camp Elena, the Far Flung Outdoor Center, the HAB, and Stardust Big Bend – all in Terlingua – and Camp Davis in Fort Davis each worked with McDonald Observatory’s Dark Skies Initiative to verify and upgrade their outdoor fixtures to meet or exceed local ordinances designed to limit light pollution.

“Preserving the night sky is critical for McDonald’s ability to conduct research,” said Stephen Hummel, the Observatory’s Dark Skies Initiative coordinator. “But the benefits extend well beyond astronomy. Better lighting can improve human health, protect wildlife, lower energy costs, and create safer outdoor spaces.”

One additional benefit for the Big Bend region is its growing astrotourism sector. As artificial light continues to brighten skies in more populated regions, it has emerged as a premier destination for those who wish to experience a truly dark night sky. In a 2022 survey of visitors to the region, 68% pursued star gazing as a part of their trip.

“The dark skies of Big Bend are one of the main reasons for people to visit the area,” said Yasir Mirza, owner of Stardust Big Bend, which offers luxury cabins near the Terlingua entrance of Big Bend National Park. “Being in the hospitality business, it is our collective responsibility to maintain the dark skies because it is good for the environment and good for business.”

“Our guests come here to disconnect and experience nature as it was meant to be seen, including the incredible stars above us,” added Jessica Kinsey, owner of Camp Davis, which provides tent and RV campsites on the southern edge of Fort Davis. “We’re proud to do our part in protecting this resource for future generations.”

Preserving the night sky does not mean eliminating outdoor lighting. Instead, it means using it thoughtfully. Night sky friendly practices include installing shielded fixtures, choosing bulbs with a warm hue, using only as much light as necessary, and turning lights off when they are no longer needed.

“We got the new lights up at Far Flung Outdoor Center and honestly I’m surprised at how much of a difference they make,” said owner Billy Barko. “As a local business owner, I feel a responsibility to protect these Class 1 skies and share them with every visitor. Since moving here in 2021, they’ve become a part of me.”

“By using red outdoor lighting and timed fixtures, we’ve minimized our light pollution,” said Hannah Bitting, co-founder of Terlingua’s Camp Elena. As a boutique camping hotel, the site prioritizes minimizing its environmental impact. That includes generating its own solar power, using grey water, and practicing mindful purchasing. “Preserving our dark skies is central to our sustainability mission.”

Another Terlingua-area property known as “the HAB,” sees limiting light pollution as a key feature of its off-grid vacation rental. With deep views of the night sky, the site has become a favorite for stargazers and astrophotographers alike. “I’ve been an amateur astronomer since I was 10 years old. I purposefully chose my location to maximize the dark sky experience,” said owner Chris Montemayor, who provides guests with telescopes to use during their stay. “Turn off the lights and reconnect with the beauty of the night sky above you. It’s easy to do and you won’t regret it.”

Since launching its Dark Skies Initiative in 2010, McDonald Observatory has worked with area businesses, homeowners, and public facilities interested in improving their outdoor lighting. The process often requires only modest adjustments, such as replacing unshielded fixtures or selecting warmer-colored bulbs, but these changes can make a meaningful difference in reducing skyglow and preserving views of the stars.

In addition to getting better views of the night sky, properties that have implemented night sky friendly lighting can also receive recognition and from McDonald Observatory. They don’t have to comply with local lighting ordinance to apply – at least not yet. The Observatory can provide assistance and guidance to locations that are interested in participating. To learn more, visit mcdonaldobservatory.org/darkskies.