Astronomy Picture of the Day: 26/01/2026
- lizarmarego
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
Object Name: Aurora Australis
Copyright: Tom Inslay
Location: Brighton Beach, Adelaide
Skill level: Beginner
Image Title
Southern Aurora
How This Image Was Captured
Gear used
OIympus OMD EM1 Mk 2, Olympus 12-40mm F2.8 Pro
Exposure details
Shot at 12mm, F2.8, ISO400, 15 second exposure
Processing notes
Processed in photoshop
Exploring Aurora Australis
Aurora Australis, also known as the Southern Lights, is a natural light display that occurs in the skies of the Southern Hemisphere, primarily near Antarctica and high southern latitudes such as southern Australia and New Zealand.
It is caused when charged particles released by the Sun collide with Earth’s magnetic field and are funneled toward the polar regions, where they interact with gases in the upper atmosphere. These interactions excite oxygen and nitrogen atoms, producing shimmering curtains, arcs, and waves of light in shades of green, pink, red, and purple.
When visible, it creates a dynamic and otherworldly spectacle that reflects the powerful connection between solar activity and Earth’s magnetic environment.
Behind the Selection
This image captures a rare and tranquil moment where natural wonder and human presence coexist in harmony. The sweeping curtains of purple and violet aurora stretch gracefully across the night sky, creating a sense of motion and awe while contrasting softly with the calm darkness above.
The subtle gradient of color near the horizon adds depth and atmosphere, making the sky feel vast and immersive. Below, the quiet shoreline and gently lit town provide a grounding element, their warm lights balancing the cool tones of the aurora and adding emotional warmth to the scene.
The composition leads the eye naturally from the textured foreground to the glowing sky, evoking a feeling of stillness, scale, and quiet magic that makes the image both visually striking and emotionally resonant.
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