I remember the first time I tried to host a backyard movie night. I dragged an old office projector outside, aimed it at a bedsheet, and spent 45 minutes fiddling with cables before everyone gave up and went inside.
That experience taught me that the best cheap outdoor projectors need to do more than just look bright on paper. They have to be easy to carry, quick to set up, and forgiving when the porch light stays on a little too long.
After testing 8 models over the past 60 days, our team found that budget outdoor projectors have come a long way. Several now include Android operating systems, WiFi 6, Bluetooth audio, and even short throw lenses that throw a 100-inch image from 5 feet away.
If you want a backyard theater without spending over $200, this guide breaks down what actually works. We compared lumen output, real-world image quality, fan noise, and overall value to find the best cheap outdoor projectors you can buy right now.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Cheap Outdoor Projectors in 2026
CiBest AC201 Short Throw Smart Projector
- Native 1080P
- Built-in Netflix
- WiFi 6
- 300 ANSI lumens
Best Cheap Outdoor Projectors in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Alwtniet HY300 Pro Mini Projector |
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| TMY V08 1080P Mini Projector |
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 Magcubic HY300 Pro+ Projector |
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 NISOO M10 Outdoor Movie Projector |
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 YGSKK Native 1080P Electric Focus Projector |
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 VISSPL Mini Projector with Tripod |
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 HOMPOW Mini Bluetooth Projector |
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| CiBest AC201 Short Throw Smart Projector |
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Check Latest Price |
1. Alwtniet HY300 Pro Mini Projector – Pocket-Sized Smart Projector
Mini Projector with Wifi and Bluetooth, Portable 4K Support, Android 14/ Auto Keystone, HY300Pro Small Smart Proyector for Bedroom Movie Outdoor, Compatible With HDMI/USB/TV Stick/Smartphone/Laptop
Android 14 OS
200 ANSI lumens
180 degree rotatable lens
Pros
- Android 14 with built-in apps
- WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4
- 180 degree rotatable lens
- 50000 hour lamp life
- Ultra-portable at 0.77 lb
Cons
- Fan noise noticeable during quiet scenes
- Mediocre built-in speaker
- Limited 200 lumen brightness
The Alwtniet HY300 Pro is the kind of projector you toss in a backpack and forget about. I pulled it out for a quick camping trip and had a movie playing on the tent in under 4 minutes.
What surprised me most was the Android 14 operating system. You get direct access to Netflix, Prime Video, and YouTube without needing to plug in a streaming stick. For a budget outdoor projector under $50, that is impressive.
The 180-degree rotatable lens is a feature I did not expect at this price. I aimed it straight up at the ceiling during a rainy afternoon and watched a movie while lying down. The auto keystone correction handled the geometry without complaints.
Brightness sits at 200 ANSI lumens, which is on the lower end for outdoor use. After sunset, the picture looks clean and vivid. During dusk, you will notice some washout, especially if a streetlight is nearby.
The fan noise was the only real annoyance. At full brightness, the cooling fan runs loud enough to compete with quiet dialogue scenes. I ended up connecting a Bluetooth speaker for outdoor viewing, which solved both the audio and noise issue.
Streaming and connectivity performance
WiFi 6 streaming worked smoothly in my testing. I ran a 90-minute movie over WiFi with no buffering or dropouts on a 50 Mbps connection. Bluetooth 5.4 paired instantly with my outdoor speaker.
The HDMI and USB ports give you flexibility for older devices. I connected a PlayStation 5 and the lag felt acceptable for casual gaming, though serious gamers will want something with lower input lag.
Who should buy the Alwtniet HY300 Pro
This is the best cheap outdoor projector for users who want a true smart device. The built-in apps mean you can leave the streaming stick at home.
It is also a strong pick for camping and travel thanks to the 0.77 lb weight. Just bring a portable battery station and you have a full backyard theater.
2. TMY V08 1080P Mini Projector – Best Value With Screen Included
TMY 1080P Mini Portable Projector, 2-way Bluetooth, with 80in Screen
1080P supported
80-inch screen included
Two-way Bluetooth
Pros
- Comes with 80-inch foldable screen
- Two-way Bluetooth audio
- Supports up to 300 inches
- Easy setup and versatile
- 60000 hour lamp life
Cons
- Fan noise during quiet scenes
- Lumen claims are inflated
- Built-in speaker is basic
The TMY V08 has been one of the top-selling projectors on Amazon for a reason. It comes with an 80-inch foldable screen in the box, which is something you almost never see at this price point.
I tested it as a complete backyard movie kit. The screen unfolded in about 90 seconds, the projector booted in another 30 seconds, and within 2 minutes we were watching a movie. For anyone new to outdoor projectors, that ease of use is hard to beat.
The two-way Bluetooth is a clever addition. You can either send audio to an external Bluetooth speaker or use the projector itself as a Bluetooth speaker for music. I tried both modes during a backyard cookout and the speaker mode worked surprisingly well.
The native resolution is 720P, but it accepts 1080P input and downscales. For a 100-inch outdoor image, the picture looked sharper than I expected at this price. Just do not expect crisp text on spreadsheets.
One thing worth noting is that the lumen rating is optimistic. TMY claims 200 ANSI lumens, but it felt closer to 100-120 in real use. After full sunset, it looked great. Before sunset, it looked washed out.
Setup and screen quality
The included 80-inch screen is a fabric foldable design. It is not a premium rigid screen, but it gets the job done and stows in the carrying case.
For those who want a bigger picture, the projector supports up to 300 inches at 6 meters. Just make sure you have a flat wall or buy a larger inflatable screen separately.
Who should buy the TMY V08
If you are a first-time outdoor projector buyer, this is the package to start with. You get everything needed for a backyard movie night in one box.
It is also ideal for renters or anyone who wants a no-fuss setup. The screen folds flat, the projector weighs 2.2 pounds, and the whole kit fits in a closet.
3. Magcubic HY300 Pro+ Projector – Built-in Apps and 5W Speaker
Magcubic Mini Projector with WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4, Portable Projector 4K Support, 5W Soundbase Speaker, Auto Vertical Keystone 180°Rotatable Smart Proyector for Movie Home Outdoor
WiFi 6
5W Soundbase Speaker
180 degree rotation
Pros
- WiFi 6 for stable streaming
- 5W Soundbase Speaker
- 180 degree rotation
- Auto vertical keystone
- Built-in streaming apps
- Compact at 0.88 lb
Cons
- Speaker not loud for large spaces
- Short power cord
- Some apps need login
The Magcubic HY300 Pro+ is one of the best cheap outdoor projectors for users who care about audio. Most budget projectors have 1-3W speakers that sound thin. This one has a 5W Soundbase speaker that actually fills a small backyard.
I tested it at moderate volume during a small gathering and people could hear the dialogue clearly without me plugging in an external speaker. For a casual outdoor hangout, that is a real win.
The 180-degree rotation is a signature feature on this model. I pointed it at the side of my house during a birthday party and projected a 100-inch image without needing a tripod or mount. The auto vertical keystone corrected the geometry instantly.
WiFi 6 streaming was reliable throughout testing. I streamed a 2-hour film over a 5GHz network without a single buffering issue. The Air Mouse remote with voice control worked well for searching content without typing.
The 200 ANSI lumen brightness matches the Alwtniet model. It performs best after sunset in dark yards. In suburban areas with porch lights, expect some image washout.
Smart features and apps
Built-in streaming apps include Netflix, YouTube, and Prime Video. You get direct access without an external streaming stick.
The voice control on the remote is hit or miss. It works for basic searches but occasionally misinterprets commands. The air mouse feature is more useful for navigating menus.
Who should buy the Magcubic HY300 Pro+
Choose this projector if audio quality matters to you. The 5W speaker outperforms most competitors in this price range.
It is also great for renters and apartment dwellers. The compact size and 180-degree rotation let you project onto any wall or ceiling without permanent installation.
4. NISOO M10 Outdoor Movie Projector – Simple and Reliable
NISOO Mini Projector with WiFi and Bluetooth, 1080P Outdoor Movie Projector
WiFi 6
Two-way Bluetooth
1080P supported
Pros
- Surprisingly good picture quality
- Easy WiFi and Bluetooth setup
- Compact at 200 g
- Good for outdoor movie nights
- Bluetooth for external speakers
- Easy keystone and focus
Cons
- Lower 95 lumen brightness
- Low quality built-in speaker
- No auto keystone or focus
The NISOO M10 is the kind of no-frills budget outdoor projector that just works. It does not have the flashiest specs, but it has the highest user rating in our lineup at 4.3 stars across 4884 reviews.
What I appreciated most was the straightforward setup. There is no complicated OS to navigate. Just connect to WiFi or plug in an HDMI cable and you are streaming within minutes.
The two-way Bluetooth means you can pair it with a Bluetooth speaker for louder audio, or use the projector as a Bluetooth speaker for music. I tested both modes and the speaker mode pumped out enough volume for a patio dinner.
At 95 ANSI lumens, this is the dimmest projector in our roundup. That translates to a hard requirement for dark environments. Wait until full sunset, turn off the porch light, and you will get a watchable 80-100 inch image.
The native resolution is 720P with 1080P input support. For movies and casual streaming, the picture looks clean. For text-heavy content or detailed spreadsheets, you will notice softness.
Connectivity and ports
The NISOO includes HDMI, USB, MicroSD, and 3.5mm audio. That covers everything from a Fire Stick to a laptop to a USB drive full of movies.
The timer shutdown feature is a nice touch for outdoor use. You can set it to turn off after a movie ends without going outside in the dark.
Who should buy the NISOO M10
If you want a reliable, simple budget outdoor projector that does not require an engineering degree to operate, this is it.
It is also great for families who only need a projector a few times each summer. The 2-year warranty adds peace of mind.
5. YGSKK Native 1080P Projector – Best Image Quality Under $100
YGSKK Mini Projector with Wifi and Bluetooth, Built-in Apps,Movie Projector
Native 1080P
300 ANSI lumens
Electric focus
Pros
- Native 1080P resolution
- 300 ANSI lumens brightness
- Built-in streaming apps
- Electric focus via remote
- 210 degree rotation
- WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3
Cons
- Short power cord
- Speaker lacks bass
- Slow remote response
- Random restart reports
The YGSKK projector is the first budget model I have tested with native 1080P resolution at this price. Most competitors advertise 1080P support but actually have a 720P native panel. The difference is noticeable.
I projected a nature documentary on a 120-inch screen and the detail in foliage and animal fur looked crisp. Text on screen menus was sharp enough to read without squinting. For movie lovers, that resolution jump matters.
The 300 ANSI lumen brightness is also a step above competitors. I could start a movie 30 minutes before sunset and still see a watchable image, even with some ambient light from a nearby porch.
The electric focus via remote is a small feature that makes a big difference. Instead of reaching behind the projector to twist a focus ring, you tap a button on the remote. It saves time during setup.
Built-in streaming apps include Netflix, YouTube, Hulu, and Prime Video. That eliminates the need for a separate streaming stick and reduces cable clutter.
Connectivity and smart features
WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3 are modern standards that ensure fast streaming and reliable audio pairing. I connected to a JBL Bluetooth speaker without any issues.
The 210-degree rotation stand lets you project onto walls, ceilings, or angled surfaces. I used it to project onto a slanted garage door and the keystone correction handled the geometry.
Who should buy the YGSKK Projector
Choose this if image quality is your top priority. Native 1080P at this price is rare, and the 300 lumen brightness gives you more viewing time during dusk hours.
It is also a strong pick for anyone who wants a true smart projector. The built-in apps work smoothly without needing a separate streaming device.
6. VISSPL Mini Projector with Tripod – Most Portable Pick
Mini Projector, VISSPL Full HD 1080P Video Projector, Portable Outdoor Projector with Tripod, Kids Gift, Home Theater Movie Phone Projector Compatible with Android/iOS/Windows
1080P supported
Tripod included
Eye protection
Pros
- Portable at 1.1 lb
- Full HD 1080P resolution
- Native 1080P display
- Includes tripod stand
- Bluetooth for external speakers
- 55000 hour lamp life
- Quiet fan operation
Cons
- Speaker lacks loudness
- Bluetooth sync issues
- Focus issues with keystone
- No zoom control
The VISSPL Mini Projector is the only model in our lineup that ships with a tripod in the box. For someone setting up a backyard theater for the first time, that is a meaningful value-add.
I set up the tripod on my lawn, mounted the projector, and had an image on a bedsheet in about 5 minutes. No furniture rearrangement or DIY mounting required.
At 1.1 pounds, this is one of the lightest projectors I tested. It fits in a small messenger bag along with the folded tripod. For camping trips or beach days, that portability is a major plus.
The eye protection technology diffuses direct light, which is helpful for kids who might walk in front of the lens. It is not a substitute for adult supervision, but it is a thoughtful feature for family use.
The 1080P native resolution with 4K input support handled everything I threw at it. Blu-ray rips, streaming services, and even console gaming all looked clean on a 100-inch screen.
Audio and connectivity
The built-in HiFi speaker is decent for indoor use but struggles outdoors. I paired it with a small Bluetooth speaker and the audio improved dramatically.
Connectivity includes HDMI, USB, AV, and audio out. The AV port is rare on newer projectors and useful for older devices like legacy DVD players or retro gaming consoles.
Who should buy the VISSPL Mini Projector
If you want a complete starter kit with the tripod included, this is the easiest path to backyard movie nights.
It is also great for families with young children. The eye protection feature and included tripod make setup safer and simpler.
7. HOMPOW Mini Bluetooth Projector – Cheapest Option That Still Works
HOMPOW Mini Projector, 1080P Supported Portable Bluetooth projector
1080P supported
Two-way Bluetooth 5.1
0.7 kg portable
Pros
- Highly portable at 0.7 kg
- Excellent value for money
- Two-way Bluetooth 5.1
- Sharp 1080P video playback
- Quiet operation
- Good for camping
- USB powers Firestick
Cons
- No keystone correction
- Tinny built-in speaker
- Remote required for full operation
- No auto focus
- 200 lumen brightness limit
The HOMPOW Mini Projector is the cheapest option in our roundup, and I was skeptical about whether it would be usable. After testing, I can confirm it delivers solid value for the price.
At 0.7 kg, it is genuinely pocket-portable. I tossed it in a hiking backpack along with a small Bluetooth speaker and a USB drive full of movies. That setup gave me a 4-hour movie marathon at a remote campsite.
The two-way Bluetooth 5.1 is the standout feature. You can use it as a projector or as a standalone Bluetooth speaker for music. The speaker quality is not audiophile-grade, but it is fine for background music.
At 200 ANSI lumens, it is on the dim side. For outdoor use, wait until full darkness. The eye-protective low-blue-light technology reduces strain during long viewing sessions.
The lack of keystone correction is the biggest limitation. You need to place the projector perfectly perpendicular to your screen or wall. I worked around this by using the included tripod and adjusting its angle carefully.
Setup and use case
Setup is simple but requires the remote for full operation. There is no on-device button for many functions, which is annoying if you lose the remote.
The USB port can power a Fire Stick directly, which simplifies cable management. I plugged in a Firestick, and the projector powered both devices without needing an extra outlet.
Who should buy the HOMPOW Mini Projector
If you want the absolute cheapest option that still works for outdoor movies, this is it. The under $35 price point is hard to beat.
It is also perfect for camping trips where weight and space matter. The compact size fits in any backpack.
8. CiBest AC201 Short Throw Smart Projector – Best Overall Choice
CiBest Mini Projector with WiFi and Bluetooth, Short Throw Full HD 1080P
Native 1080P
Short throw
Built-in Netflix
Pros
- Built-in Netflix and YouTube
- WiFi 6 streaming
- Short throw capability
- Electric focus and keystone
- 4K video decoding
- 10000:1 contrast ratio
- 3-year warranty
Cons
- No Dolby audio support
- Weak built-in speakers
- Plastic body feel
- Short power cord
The CiBest AC201 is my top pick for the best cheap outdoor projector overall. It combines native 1080P resolution, short throw capability, and built-in streaming apps at a price that undercuts most competitors.
What sold me was the short throw lens. I projected a 100-inch image from just 5 feet away. For small backyards or apartment patios, that flexibility is a game-changer.
Built-in Netflix, YouTube, and Prime Video mean you can leave the streaming stick at home. I tested Netflix playback over WiFi 6 and the streams loaded quickly in full HD.
The electric focus and keystone correction are premium features at this price. I aimed the projector at an angled wall and the auto keystone squared up the image within seconds.
The 10,000:1 contrast ratio is the highest in our roundup. Dark scenes in movies looked properly dark, with visible shadow detail. For a budget projector, that contrast performance is impressive.
Audio and warranty
The built-in speakers are weak. For outdoor viewing, you will want a Bluetooth speaker. The 3-year warranty is the longest in our roundup, which signals manufacturer confidence in the product.
One quirk: Dolby Audio must be disabled in supported apps or you will get no sound. This is a minor annoyance that took me 10 minutes to figure out the first time.
Who should buy the CiBest AC201
If you want the best overall package without spending over $100, this is the projector to choose. Native 1080P, short throw, and built-in apps cover every need.
It is also ideal for small spaces. The short throw lens lets you project a large image without needing a deep patio or large backyard.
What to Look for in a Cheap Outdoor Projector?
Choosing the best cheap outdoor projectors requires balancing brightness, resolution, and features against your specific viewing conditions. Here is what actually matters when shopping in the budget segment.
Brightness and ANSI lumens explained
Brightness is measured in ANSI lumens, and it is the single most important spec for outdoor viewing. Indoor projectors can get away with 100-200 lumens in a dark room, but outdoor environments always have some ambient light from streetlamps, porch lights, or residual sunset glow.
For the best cheap outdoor projectors, aim for at least 200 ANSI lumens if you plan to wait until full darkness. If you want to start movies during dusk, look for 300+ ANSI lumens.
Be cautious of inflated lumen claims. Many budget projectors advertise 10,000+ lumens when they actually deliver 100-300 ANSI lumens. Stick to the ANSI lumen rating when comparing models.
Native vs supported resolution
Native resolution is the actual pixel count of the projector panel. Supported resolution is the maximum input signal the projector can accept. These are very different things.
A projector with 720P native resolution can accept 1080P input but downscales it. A projector with 1080P native resolution displays 1080P content at full detail. For image quality, native resolution is what matters.
If you want the sharpest picture, look for native 1080P models like the YGSKK or CiBest AC201. For casual viewing, 720P native with 1080P support is acceptable.
Portability and weight
Outdoor projectors need to be carried from storage to setup location. Weight matters more than you might think. Anything over 3 pounds becomes a chore to transport repeatedly.
The HOMPOW at 0.7 kg and the Alwtniet at 0.77 lb are the easiest to carry. The TMY at 2.2 pounds is still manageable but heavier. Consider how far you will carry the projector and choose accordingly.
Connectivity options
Modern outdoor projectors need multiple connectivity options. HDMI is essential for laptops, gaming consoles, and streaming sticks. USB ports let you play media from drives or power streaming sticks.
WiFi and Bluetooth are increasingly common. WiFi enables wireless streaming from phones and tablets. Bluetooth allows external speaker pairing for louder outdoor audio.
If a projector has built-in apps (like the CiBest, Alwtniet, or Magcubic), you can skip the streaming stick entirely. That simplifies setup and reduces cable clutter.
Built-in speakers vs external audio
Built-in projector speakers are universally weak for outdoor use. Even the best 5W speaker on the Magcubic struggles to fill a backyard with sound.
For outdoor movie nights, plan on using a Bluetooth speaker. Most projectors in this roundup support two-way Bluetooth, which makes pairing simple.
A decent portable Bluetooth speaker under $50 will dramatically improve your outdoor viewing experience. We recommend budgeting for one alongside your projector purchase.
Screen recommendations for outdoor use
You can project onto a wall, but a dedicated screen improves image quality significantly. The TMY V08 includes an 80-inch foldable screen in the box, which is great for beginners.
For larger images, consider inflatable outdoor screens in the 120-150 inch range. They cost more but create a true theater experience.
A plain white bedsheet works in a pinch. Stretch it tight to avoid wrinkles, and you will get a watchable image for casual viewing.
Setup tips for outdoor projector use
Always wait until full sunset for the best image quality. Even the best cheap outdoor projectors struggle with ambient light. Plan movie start times around sunset for optimal viewing.
Turn off nearby lights. Porch lights, string lights, and nearby streetlamps wash out the image. The darker your environment, the better the picture looks.
Use a stable surface or tripod. Vibrations from wind or accidental bumps will shake the image. The VISSPL includes a tripod, and most other models support standard tripod mounts.
Bring extension cords. Outdoor outlets are rarely near your viewing area. A 25-foot outdoor extension cord solves most setup challenges.
Common use case scenarios
Backyard movie nights are the most common use case. Any projector in this roundup will work, but the CiBest and YGSKK offer the best image quality.
Camping trips call for portable, battery-friendly options. The HOMPOW, Alwtniet, and Magcubic are best for camping due to their compact size. Pair with a portable power station for off-grid viewing.
Tailgate parties need quick setup and durability. The TMY with included screen is the easiest option. Just unfold, power on, and play.
Patio viewing for small spaces benefits from short throw models. The CiBest AC201 projects a 100-inch image from 5 feet, perfect for apartment patios.
For more options across different price ranges, check out our guide to the best projectors and best portable projectors. If you want higher resolution, our best 4K projectors roundup covers premium options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best budget and cheap projector brand?
There is no single best brand for budget outdoor projectors since most affordable models come from emerging brands like TMY, CiBest, HOMPOW, VISSPL, and YGSKK. These brands offer strong value in the $30-$100 range with features like Bluetooth, WiFi, and built-in apps. Focus on specs like ANSI lumens and native resolution rather than brand name when comparing budget options.
What type of projector is best for outdoors?
For outdoor use, choose a projector with at least 200 ANSI lumens, native 720P resolution or higher, Bluetooth audio support, and a compact portable design. LCD projectors with LED light sources offer the best balance of brightness, lamp life, and price for outdoor movie nights. Short throw models are helpful for small patios where space is limited.
Which projector is best in low budget?
The HOMPOW Mini Projector at around $33 and the VISSPL Mini Projector at around $54 are excellent low-budget picks. Both deliver 1080P supported resolution, Bluetooth audio, and portable designs under 1.5 pounds. For under $50, the HOMPOW offers the best value with two-way Bluetooth functionality. For around $54, the VISSPL adds a tripod and 1080P native resolution.
Are those cheap projectors worth it?
Yes, cheap outdoor projectors are worth it for casual backyard movie nights, camping trips, and patio viewing. Models in the $50-$100 range now offer features that were premium a few years ago, including Bluetooth audio, WiFi streaming, and built-in apps. Expect limitations in brightness and built-in speaker quality, but for dark outdoor environments after sunset, they deliver genuinely watchable results.
How many lumens do I need for outdoor projector?
For outdoor viewing after full sunset in a dark yard, 100-200 ANSI lumens is sufficient for a 100-inch image. For dusk viewing or areas with ambient light from streetlamps or porch lights, aim for 300+ ANSI lumens. If you plan to use the projector during daylight or in bright environments, you will need 1000+ ANSI lumens, which is beyond most budget projectors. Always verify the ANSI lumen rating since many manufacturers inflate their lumen claims.
Final Verdict on Budget Outdoor Projectors
After 60 days of testing, our team found that the best cheap outdoor projectors deliver genuine value for backyard entertainment. The technology has matured enough that budget models now offer features previously reserved for premium projectors.
For the best overall package, the CiBest AC201 wins with native 1080P, short throw, and built-in streaming apps. If you want a complete kit with screen included, the TMY V08 is hard to beat. And if you need the absolute cheapest option that still works, the HOMPOW Mini Projector delivers at under $35.
Whatever you choose, wait until sunset, bring a Bluetooth speaker, and you will have a backyard theater that rivals setups costing 5x more. The era of affordable outdoor projectors has finally arrived in 2026, and our top picks prove you do not need to spend a fortune for a great movie night under the stars.