Lake of the Ozarks: A Glimpse of the Milky Way Despite Dock Lights
This past weekend, I found myself at the beautiful Lake of the Ozarks, hoping to soak in some of the natural beauty. Like many who visit these popular spots, the mandatory boat dock lights were quite prominent, presenting a significant challenge for astrophotography. However, even with the persistent backlighting, I was determined to see what I could capture.
Using nothing more than my trusty cell phone, I was still able to pull out a subtle, yet undeniably present, ribbon of the Milky Way arching in the distance. It's a testament to how even in areas with light pollution, a bit of patience and the right conditions can still reveal the wonders of our night sky.
It reminds me of a past trip to rural New Mexico and Colorado. Despite that adventure being filled with other memorable experiences, I was quite disappointed then due to either a full moon or cloud cover obscuring the stars. Thankfully, this time, the Lake of the Ozarks offered a small, but rewarding, cosmic treat.
It's always inspiring to be reminded that you don't always need professional equipment to connect with the universe. Sometimes, a clear night and a bit of effort are all it takes.
