Dancing Skies: Aurora Borealis Over Iceland's Iconic Plane Wreck

Iceland, a land of fire and ice, often conjures images of dramatic landscapes and unique geological wonders. But beneath the dancing skies, a different kind of magic unfolds – the captivating spectacle of the Aurora Borealis.

This incredible photograph captures that very magic, showcasing the Northern Lights in all their glory, draped over the hauntingly beautiful Sólheimasandur plane wreck. For years, the photographer dreamt of capturing this scene, and last year, that dream became a reality.

Even with modest aurora readings and a rising moon, the display was a far cry from what one might see in more light-polluted areas. The vibrant greens and purples of the aurora painted the night sky, creating an unforgettable backdrop for the grounded DC-3 aircraft.

A Glimpse into the Processing:

Achieving such a breathtaking result requires dedication and skillful processing. Here's a look at the technical details behind this stunning image:

• Gear Used: Nikon Z7a, Nikkor Z 14-24 f2.8S, Sky-Watcher Star Adventurer Pro 2i
• Sky Capture: 4 frames x 1 row, each shot at 14mm, f2.8, ISO3200, with 6-second exposures. These were merged in PTGui and further processed in Pixinsight.
• Foreground Capture: A single frame was taken at 14mm, f5.6, ISO3200, with a 30-second exposure.
• Final Touches: The image was brought together and adjusted using Photoshop and Lightroom.

The Story of the Plane:

The Sólheimasandur plane wreck itself has a fascinating history. This particular aircraft is a former US Navy plane that crash-landed on the black sand beach after running out of fuel on its final flight. It has remained there ever since, becoming an iconic and somewhat melancholic landmark.

The combination of this historical relic and the celestial dance of the aurora creates a truly unique and powerful visual narrative. It's a testament to the enduring beauty of nature and the thrill of capturing it through astrophotography.

Has anyone else had the chance to witness the aurora in such an incredible setting?