Astronomy Picture of the Day: 5.02.2026

Object Name: Aurora and star trails

Copyright: Adam Green

Location: South Australia

Connect: Photonic Acquisitions

Artists statement

This is a stack of 70 photos, blended together in photoshop using the highlight method.

So much colour from that night!

Behind the Selection

This is a striking long-exposure star-trail composition, executed with strong technical control and a clear artistic vision. The concentric rotation around the celestial pole is clean and well-defined, immediately anchoring the viewer’s eye and giving the image a powerful sense of time, motion, and cosmic scale.

The colour palette is a standout feature. The smooth transition from cool violets and blues in the upper sky to warm magenta and pink tones near the horizon adds depth and atmosphere without overpowering the stars themselves. These hues suggest either subtle airglow or careful post-processing restraint—either way, they enhance rather than distract. Star trails remain crisp, evenly exposed, and free from noticeable breaks, indicating consistent exposure stacking and stable tracking alignment.

Foreground elements are thoughtfully chosen. The silhouetted trees provide scale and grounding, balancing the immense sky above and preventing the image from feeling abstract. Their asymmetrical placement adds visual tension while maintaining harmony with the circular motion overhead. The negative space in the lower frame is well judged, allowing the eye to rest before being drawn upward into the rotation.

Compositionally, the image demonstrates patience and intent. The celestial pole is positioned slightly off-centre, avoiding rigidity and creating a more dynamic frame. The scene feels immersive and contemplative, inviting the viewer to linger.

Overall, this is a polished and compelling piece of astrophotography that successfully blends technical precision with emotional impact. It shows strong competition-level quality and a confident understanding of both night-sky imaging and visual storytelling.