The Moon Through an iPhone 7: A Decade-Old Glimpse
Sometimes, the most captivating glimpses of the cosmos come from the most unexpected places. Today, we're stepping back in time a decade to revisit a photograph of our Moon, taken not with a fancy telescope or professional DSLR, but with a humble iPhone 7.
This image, shared with us by a talented amateur photographer, is a testament to the power of simple exposure and the inherent beauty of our natural satellite. It's presented in its rawest form – no filters, no elaborate editing, just a straightforward capture.
As you can see, the image showcases the Moon's cratered surface. The photographer affectionately calls this particular capture "Smaug's Eye," a fitting moniker for the fiery glow emanating from the right side. This subtle glare, according to the photographer, is actually from a nearby lamppost, adding an interesting, almost mystical, touch to the celestial scene.
It's fascinating to consider how far mobile photography has come, but this image reminds us that compelling astrophotography isn't solely about the gear. It's about the vision, the patience, and the willingness to look up and capture the wonders that surround us, even with the technology readily available. This "Smaug's Eye" is a beautiful reminder of that, a snapshot from ten years ago that still holds a certain magic.
