Photographer | Cosmos Safari Astrophotography

Meet Dave Farina: Founder of Cosmos Safari

18 Years of Astronomy, Photography, and Exploration

My name is Dave Farina, and my mission is to bridge the gap between the terrestrial and the celestial. With over 18 years of experience as a veteran astronomy educator, I have dedicated my career to teaching the science of the stars, our planet, and the importance of sustainable development. My journey has allowed me the privilege and experience in leading others on their journey as a former planetarium and observatory director, and as president of my local astronomy club. I'm fortunate to have received advanced training from world-class astronomers through Pennsylvania State University and the NASA Space Grant Consortium. As a current NASA/JPL Solar System Ambassador, I am passionate about public outreach, bringing the wonders of our universe down to Earth for hobbyists and nature lovers alike.

The Vision Behind Cosmos Safari

In 2020, I founded Cosmos Safari to create a community where nature, science, and photography intersect. Through the Cosmos Safari Podcast, my YouTube channel, and this blog, I provide high-quality instructional content designed to help you see the world through a more observant lens.

"Life is your laboratory, start observing." — Dave Farina

From National Parks to Deep Space

My photography is a dual pursuit of the micro and the macro. During the day, I use my Sony mirrorless system to find beauty in the details—from the intricate textures of flora to the wildlife found in our United States National Parks.

By night, I trade my landscape lenses for dedicated astronomy cameras and telescopes. Having witnessed and photographed both the 2017 and 2024 Total Solar Eclipses from the path of totality, I specialize in deep-sky astrophotography, capturing nebulae and galaxies that remind us of our place in the cosmos.

Tools of the Trade - Terrestrial Photography

For terrestrial wildlife and landscapes, I use my Sony Mirrorless a7IV and a7sIII.
I find that these cameras pair best with their native glass like the Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II, the Sony FE 200-600mm F5.6-6.3 G OSS, Sony FE 90mm F2.8 Macro G OSS. I have also had very much enjoyed the Sigma 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN Art.

Tools of the Trade - Astrophotography

Dedicated Astronomy Cameras: I utilize dedicated cooled astronomy cameras like the Player One Poseidon-C Pro and the Pegasus Astro SmartEye.
Imaging Telescopes: My primary imaging platforms include the Stellarvue SVX 130T, Celestron 11" RASA, Celestron 8" EdgeHD, and the TeleVue NP101.
Astronomy Accessories: My setups are powered and controlled by precision gear, including the Pegasus Astro Ultimate Powerbox V2, Falcon Rotator V1, and FocusCube V2.
Visual Observation: For outreach and personal observing, I use the Celestron 8" StarSense Explorer Dobsonian, Celestron NexStar Evolution 8, and the Celestron NexStar 6SE.

Join the Journey

I invite you to explore the beauty of our planet and the universe beyond. Whether you are here to learn astrophotography techniques, listen to interviews with industry leaders on the podcast, or find inspiration for your own observations, I am here to guide you.

"The Universe is closer than you think." — Dave Farina

David Farina wearing glasses, a light-colored cap, and a blue jacket stands outdoors at dusk beside a large astronomical telescope on a tripod, with suburban houses and trees in the background. The scene is dimly lit, suggesting nighttime stargazing or amateur astronomy in a residential neighborhood.