Milky Way Illuminates Morning Glory Pool: A Solitary Nighttime Spectacle

Capturing this moment was an absolute dream. Hiking at night through bear country was a bit daunting at first, but the serenity and peace under the stars made it all worthwhile.

Experiencing the Morning Glory Pool, usually bustling with visitors, in total solitude was surreal. This incredible view of the Milky Way over such an iconic spot definitely calls for another nighttime adventure to soak in Yellowstone’s beauty after dark.

The Journey and the Reward

The adventure began with a trek into the wilderness after sunset. The usual daytime crowds had long since dispersed, leaving the park to the quiet hum of nature. As I navigated the trails, the anticipation of seeing the cosmos in such a unique setting grew. The slight trepidation of hiking in bear country was a small price to pay for the promise of an unparalleled celestial display.

Arriving at the Morning Glory Pool, the stillness was profound. The vibrant colors of the pool, usually a spectacle in daylight, were softened by the moonlight, creating an ethereal atmosphere. And then, the sky opened up. The Milky Way, a dazzling band of stars, arched perfectly above the geothermal wonder, a sight few are privileged to witness.

The Technical Details Behind the Magic

Creating this image involved careful planning and execution. Here's a breakdown of the equipment and settings used:

Equipment:

• Camera: Sony A7iii (Astro modified)
• Lens: Sony 24mm f/1.4 GM
• Mount: Sky Watcher Star Adventurer

Sky Capture:

• Configuration: 2 Panel Vertical Panorama
• Exposure: 5 x 15 seconds (stacked)
• Aperture: f/2.8
• ISO: 640

Foreground Capture:

• Exposure: 5 x 15 seconds (stacked)
• Aperture: f/2.8
• ISO: 640

Editing Workflow:

• Software: Pixinsight & Photoshop
• Pixinsight Processes: BlurX, StarX, NoiseX
• Photoshop Adjustments: Camera Raw Filter, Brightness & Contrast, Saturation, Screen Stars, Blend Foreground

This meticulous process allowed for the capture and enhancement of both the celestial and terrestrial elements, bringing this unique scene to life.

More Adventures Ahead

This experience has certainly fueled a desire for more nighttime explorations of Yellowstone's hidden wonders. There's a unique magic in seeing familiar landscapes transformed by the darkness and illuminated by the stars.

Follow along on my Instagram for more astrophotography and outdoor adventures: