Joshua Tree is a certified International Dark Sky Park. This means that it not only has one of the clearest night skies on earth, despite only being 2 hours from LA. But being an international dark sky zone means more than just being a good place to stargaze. It stands for the protection of the dark skies. By limiting the amount of light pollution in the surrounding areas as well as the park, the park has a profound impact on the species that live in the park. Artificial light affects migration patterns, hunting, and the sleep cycles of wild animals. On top of that it hinders the navigation of many animals, especially birds, who fly towards bright lights to guide them. Even plants use the day/night cycle to know what season it is and when to breed. In fact, light pollution has no environmental benefit except to help humans see at night. Which makes these parks even more valuable. So if you have a chance, make your way out to a dark sky zone and watch the meteor shower, shooting stars, and milky way unfold before your eyes. I guarantee you will be amazed. . . . #milkywaycc #milkyway_nightscape_ #nightphotography #nightscaper #ig_skyvibes #thenatureviewer #depthsofearth #eclectic_shotz #longexpo_addiction #ig_serenity #acquariumofstars #nature_wizards #the_folknature #cascadiaexplored #iflnps #longexpo_addiction #nightshooters #dreamful _landscapes #night_excl #night_shots #tree_magic #nightpix #dreaming_landscape #ig_dynamic #splendid_earth #landscape_nightscape #astrovoyagers #joshuatree #joshuatreenationalpark