Keep the Stars Bright: Responsible Camping Lights for Dark Sky Week
April 21 - 28 marks International Dark Sky Week, and here at STKR Concepts, it’s more than just a calendar note; it’s a chance to reflect on our connection to the night sky and our responsibility to protect it.
Whether you’re deep in the backcountry or just stepping outside your tent to take in the view, the stars have a way of grounding us. They remind us of how vast the universe is and how small changes in our own behavior can make a big difference. One of those changes? Rethinking how we use light after dark.
At STKR, we believe you don’t have to sacrifice safety or convenience to be kind to the night. That’s one of the reasons we created the FLi Telescoping Series – to give you versatile, campsite-friendly lighting that helps you see clearly without drowning out the stars.
What Is International Dark Sky Week?
International Dark Sky Week was started in 2003 by then-high school student Jennifer Barlow, who wanted to share her passion for astronomy and help others rediscover the natural night sky. Since then, it’s grown into a global event organized by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA), with participation from individuals, schools, parks, and entire cities.
The mission is simple but powerful:
- Raise awareness about the effects of light pollution
- Encourage communities to reduce unnecessary artificial light
- Inspire people to look up and connect with the stars
Light pollution affects more than just astronomy. It impacts wildlife, ecosystems, and even our own health. But the good news? It’s one of the most reversible forms of pollution if we all do our part.
Why Lighting Matters at Night
Light pollution doesn’t just block our view of the Milky Way. It also:
- Confuses migratory patterns in birds and sea turtles
- Disrupts circadian rhythms in both humans and animals
- Wastes energy and contributes to climate change
- Erodes our cultural and natural connection to the cosmos
When we choose lighting that’s smarter and more intentional, we help restore the natural balance of nighttime environments – whether it’s in your own backyard or a remote trailhead.
How STKR Helps: The FLi Telescoping Series
Our FLi Telescoping Lights are built for the modern camper and adventurer who wants visibility without creating a light dome over the forest. Here’s how they help reduce light pollution:
- Downward-Cast Light: The telescoping pole lifts your light above eye level, directing beams downward where you need them—not into the sky.
- Red and Amber Modes: The FLi 6.5ft model offers a red mode, and the FLi PRO and Over-Lander feature an amber mode. These wavelengths are less disruptive to wildlife and help preserve your night vision, so you can move through camp while still enjoying the stars above.
- Adjustable Brightness: Sometimes, less is more. Dim your light to match your needs and avoid over-illumination, especially when winding down for the night.
Join the Dark Sky Movement
Whether you’re out camping, stargazing in your backyard, or just flipping off that extra porch light, you can take small but meaningful steps to protect our skies.
This Dark Sky Week, join STKR Concepts in lighting smarter, camping responsibly, and keeping the stars visible for generations to come.
→ Explore the FLi Telescoping Series and make your next outdoor adventure a dark-sky-friendly one here.