Moon Eye: A Stunning Single Exposure Capture of the Moon Through an Arch
Astrophotographer Zach Cooley has delivered a truly mesmerizing image, aptly named "Moon Eye," that perfectly captures the moon framed within a grand natural arch. What makes this photograph even more remarkable is that it was achieved in a single exposure, a testament to meticulous planning and precise execution.
The Challenge of Perfect Alignment
Cooley's primary goal was to capture the moon precisely centered within the arch. This required understanding the moon's celestial movement, which shifts its own diameter across the sky every two minutes. The entire transit through the arch was estimated to last about five minutes, but the ideal centering would only be visible for a mere few seconds.
Behind the Scenes: Planning and Execution
Cooley details the intense preparation involved in securing this shot. He arrived at the location well in advance, setting up his Canon EOS R camera with a Tamron 150-600mm G2 lens on a sturdy tripod. As the moment of the moon's appearance approached, a palpable nervousness set in, fueled by the uncertainty of his positioning and calculations.
The anticipation grew when the moon didn't appear at the initially expected time. Cooley repeatedly checked his camera settings while anxiously observing the arch. Finally, the moon began to peek through. Using a remote shutter to minimize camera shake, he shot continuously. Cooley even made slight repositioning adjustments to ensure the moon remained centered within the arch. By the time the moon had fully passed through, he had captured nearly 400 shots. The success of the shot was met with elation, a mix of "yelling and a little bit of dancing."
Technical Details of the Single Exposure:
- Focal Length: 428mm
- Aperture: F/9
- Shutter Speed: 1/500 sec.
- ISO: 125
This "Moon Eye" photograph is a remarkable example of how patience, technical skill, and a deep understanding of celestial mechanics can combine to create truly unforgettable images of our universe.
