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Astronomy and astrophotography under California stars
Astrophoto of the Great Orion Nebula (M42) taken from Borrego Springs, California, in November 2009. Astrophotography is a hobby that forces some amateur astronomers to spend cold, dark nights quietly cursing their expensive telescope and camera equipment while the rest of the world watches the leaves change colors, engages in community activities, follows politics, and interacts with their families.

Great Orion Nebula from Borrego Springs, California
November 2009

Astronomy in southern California is strong, for amateurs and professionals alike. The region crackles with astronomical activity showcased in events like the RTMC Astronomy Expo, Julian Starfest, Nightfall, Pacific Astronomy and Telescope Show (PATS), Southern California Astronomy Expo (SCAE), organizations such as JPL, CalTech, the Mt. Wilson Observatory Association (MWOA), and clubs such as the Riverside Astronomical Society, Los Angeles Astronimical Society, San Diego Astronomy Association, and many others.

While dark skies in southern California are dwindling, there are still many mountain and desert areas to frequent that offer good conditions for viewing and imaging. With sites from Mt. Pinos to Anza Borrego and beyond, southern Californian amateur astronomers are pretty fortunate.

Most Recent Photos
Please visit the Gallery for more astrophotographs shot from California.

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Southern Californian?
Join the "So Cal Astro Photo" Yahoo group for amateur astronomers and astrophotographers in southern California.

Causes for Concern
These issues are pertinent to southern California astronomers who use and enjoy the open desert lands that are threatened by a number of corporations and special interest groups.

Joshua Tree Adjacent Land Considered for Nation's Largest Landfill

Proposed Power Transmission Lines Cut Through California's Desert