Unlike Western Washington, New Mexico has dark skies filled with stars. Compare our backyard on a rare clear night —
To the land of wide-open vistas —
In addition to talking for long hours, eating with abandon, driving without traffic, hiking through hidden valleys, cuddling one cat and respecting another, we four spotted the Milky Way. The Milky Way, as you know, is the galaxy we’re in. Spotting it — or photographing it — is both special and hard because
- It’s big.
- It’s far away.
- It’s only visible during “Milky Way season.”
- It’s only visible if the night sky is clear of clouds.
- It’s only visible if the night sky is free of light pollution.
However, my people are willing and adventurous! Plus,
- They live just down the street from Overlook Park.
- Overlook Park overlooks the Rio Grande, which is cool.
- I have the right camera stuff.
- I read a lot about astrophotography in anticipation of our trip.
This one, while not stunning, is what I accomplished with the help of Jessica, Jasper, and Jim, who deserve gold medals for being the very best astrophotographer-pit-crew in all of NM. Twice they ventured out where the coyotes howl and the skies are black; once setting their alarms for midnight, and the last time not even going to bed first.
Thanks, guys. I’ve got big plans for next year’s Milky Way season!