When I Captured the Aurora at Mono Lake...

After almost eight years of chasing the Aurora around the world, I never imagined witnessing a display like the one from last October in a low-latitude location like California! The aurora exceeded all my expectations, creating a truly magical scene.

A Dedicated Drive for Clear Skies

I was committed to driving as long as necessary to find clear skies. From Las Vegas, Mono Lake was the closest "good" place, but it still involved a challenging 5-hour drive. The urgency was even greater as I had to be back in town the next morning for an important appointment.

A Remarkable Achievement

I'm thrilled to announce that this image has been shortlisted for the prestigious Astronomy Photographer of the Year 2025! This recognition is a dream come true.

A Unique Perspective

Seeing the lights so low to the ground is a unique experience, especially when they only fill parts of the sky. Unlike other photos that have shown a mere pink tint, this display offered a more immersive and vibrant experience.

Every element of this shot is captivating: the reflected colors on Mono Lake, the subtle water ripples by the tufas in the background, the rocks visible beneath the water's surface in the foreground, and the tufas on the far right beautifully highlighted in rose along the edge. It's an amazing composition that truly captures the magic of that moment.

The location itself is picturesque at any time of day, but the aurora took it to an entirely new level. This photograph encapsulates a unique and unforgettable moment of celestial wonder.