Del Mar Foundation sets Nov. 12 date for free night sky talk
Speakers Eddie Lain and Cathy Handzel will discuss light pollution's impact on health and wildlife at Del Mar Town Hall.
By Tyler Khalil ·
The Del Mar Foundation will host a free public lecture on the effects of light pollution on Thursday, Nov. 12.
The presentation, titled "Dark Skies, Brighter Tomorrows: Embrace the rhythm of the night," features speakers Eddie Lain and Cathy Handzel. They will examine how the natural cycle of light and darkness supports wildlife, plant growth, and human health. The event is organized in partnership with DarkSky San Diego, a local chapter of DarkSky International.
According to a news release, the speakers will explore how artificial light disrupts these essential biological rhythms. They will also outline specific steps residents can take to reduce light pollution. The goal is to restore visibility of the night sky, including the Milky Way, for local communities.
The event runs from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Del Mar Town Hall, located at 1050 Camino Del Mar. Wine and light refreshments are served at 6 p.m., with the formal talk beginning at 6:30 p.m. Admission is free, though organizers request that attendees register to secure a seat and refreshments. Registration is available at delmarfoundation.org.
Eddie Lain is a filmmaker and photographer who studied biology and pre-med at UC San Diego. He is a co-founder of Friends of the Night Sky, a community outreach group, and helps organize the San Diego Dark Sky Festival. Lain was named Valley Center's Person of the Year for his work in preserving the stars.
Cathy Handzel is a community educator and advocate for the nighttime environment. She focuses on responsible outdoor lighting and its benefits for public health and local ecosystems. Handzel works with residents, organizations, and decision makers to improve lighting choices and protect natural darkness.
