Tonight, we celebrate not just another astrophotographer, but a true brother under the stars — @DeShda-West.Texas.Skies .

I've had the privilege of calling him a friend for quite a while now. Our paths first crossed by chance. I discovered he had a RedCat 71, same as I did, except his was working. I would ask him all kinds of questions about cameras, filters, and so on, in an effort to get my RedCat going. He would always respond with patience, insight, and humor. That generosity of knowledge is something that's never changed.

Then along came S.W.A.G., and DeShda absolutely ignited. From the very start, his work has been nothing short of breathtaking. His images of the deep sky have become staples in our community — rich, balanced, artistic, and technically flawless. Through his lens, the universe comes alive in vivid color and clarity. He's not just an astrophotographer; he's an astronomy artist, a technician, and a mentor all rolled into one.

Living in the harsh and (and some say?) beautiful deserts of West Texas, DeShda knows adversity firsthand. Living about 70mi/112km or so from me, we both know how the local weather can be challenging to say the least.. The rest of us talk about “bad seeing” — he endures about 60-mile/96.5km-an-hour winds, dust storms, and searing heat that can last weeks to months on end. Add in bugs, light pollution, and gear-torturing grit, and most would pack it up. But not DeShda. Somehow, in those conditions, he continues to deliver some of the most awe-inspiring images on AstroImg.

He's a constant presence in our groups — always encouraging, always helping, and yes, always in the Top 10. It seems there's never a day without a new cosmic wonder from his skies. His dedication and consistency have set the bar for all of us.

When the Caldwell and Messier challenges came around, DeShda wasn't just a participant — he was a pillar. His contributions and support helped so many of us capture targets we might never have otherwise reached. That spirit of teamwork, mentorship, and quiet excellence is exactly what this community was built upon.

So tonight, as we gather beneath the stars — whether in person or in spirit — let's take a moment to celebrate our friend, our mentor, and our fellow sky chaser:
DeShda-West.Texas.Skies.

Congratulations on earning your S.W.A.G. V.I.P. Honor Badge. You've more than earned your place among the stars. Your Honor Badge is available in the Wah!

Under the West Texas Skies: Through Dust and Darkness, He Captured the Stars