A photography contest titled "Capture the Dark," organized by DarkSky International, brings attention to the increasing problem of light pollution and the potential effects of satellite constellations on the night sky. One of the contest's categories, "Light Pollution," showcases images that highlight how artificial light is diminishing natural darkness. A notable entry is "Artificial Comet" by Kouyu Wang, which captures the movement of recently launched Starlink satellites. The image was created by combining multiple exposures, revealing how these satellites drift across the sky and raising concerns about their impact on stargazing and astronomy. The European Southern Observatory (ESO) warns that the growing number of satellites in low Earth orbit—such as those planned by companies like SpaceX and Reflect Orbital—could make the night sky up to four times brighter. This brightness could severely hinder optical astronomy, which relies on dark skies to observe distant celestial objects. The ESO emphasizes that without proper regulations, the ability of scientists to study the universe could be significantly compromised. Light pollution is increasing by about 10% each year and has far-reaching effects beyond astronomy. It can disrupt ecosystems, affect wildlife behavior, and even impact human health. Contest entries like Paul Wilson’s "Razorback," which captures the Milky Way over Australia’s Flinders Range, and Kat Lawman’s "Window to Orion," showing hydrogen clouds near the Orion constellation, emphasize the beauty of the night sky and the need to preserve it. These images serve as both artistic and environmental statements about the value of natural darkness. Another category in the contest, "Creatures of the Dark," focuses on how natural darkness is essential for wildlife. Light pollution can confuse migratory birds, disrupt bat habitats, and increase the danger for frogs crossing illuminated roads. Tom Rae’s entry, "The Chasm," captures the glowing spectacle of glowworms in a New Zealand cave, drawing attention to the delicate balance of light and darkness in natural environments. To address the issue, the International Astronomical Union recommends creating "starry sky oases"—designated areas where natural darkness is preserved for public enjoyment and scientific study. Examples include Arches National Park in the U.S. and Col d'Allos in the French Alps. These areas are highlighted in the contest, underscoring the importance of protecting dark skies for future generations. Efforts to reduce light pollution include using shielded lighting, avoiding unnecessary brightness, and limiting blue light, which is particularly disruptive to the night environment. The contest serves as a powerful reminder of the need to balance human needs with the preservation of the natural night.