A once in a lifetime occurrence as SpaceX Starlink satellites are deployed in front of Comet Neowise as it sets behind an abandoned car from an old 1930’s mill site. The comet was the brightest since Hale-Bopp in 1997 and was visible to the naked eye, drawing mass attention to the astronomical wonder before disappearing for the next 4500 to 6800 years.
Starlink has been criticized due to the potential impacts of astronomical observation, from increased light pollution to streaks of light across the sky that can ultimately diminish the beauty of the night sky for stargazers.
Comet Neowise illustrates the importance of dark sky observation. Starlink can effectively aid in global internet coverage but at the same time ruin one's dark sky experience. The juxtaposition is a stark contrast captured in this perfectly timed photobomb.
Camera: Nikon D750
Lens: AF-S Nikkor 50mm f/1.8
Subject: Comet Neowise and SpaceX Starlink
Location: Joshua Tree National Park
Edition: 1/1
Year: 2020
Photographer: Brandon Yoshizawa
Content: Time-lapse Photography
Additional Content: Bidder Edition(s)
