Astrophotography 101 Seminar: Capture the Cosmos at Agate Fossil Beds
Date:
September 7, 2024
Time:
8:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Location:
Agate Fossil Beds National Monument Visitor Center, 341 River Rd, Harrison Nebraska (Click for Google Map)
Join Us for a Night Under the Stars
Prepare for an unforgettable evening of stargazing and photography at the Astrophotography 101 seminar, hosted under the stunning night skies of Agate Fossil Beds National Monument. This event offers a rare opportunity for our newest as well as most experienced astrophotographers to capture the beauty of the Milky Way’s core, set against the backdrop of Agate’s iconic Fossil Hills and Lakota tipi.
Why This Event is a Must-Attend:
- Moonless Sky: We’ve carefully selected this date to coincide with a moonless sky. The lack of lunar light means that the stars will shine brightly, and the galactic core will be fully visible—perfect for capturing breathtaking astrophotography.
- Optimal Timing: September is the ideal time to photograph the Milky Way’s core during the evening hours. Capture the galaxy at a reasonable hour, without having to stay up late into the night or rise before dawn.
- Stunning Location: Agate Fossil Beds is one of the best dark-sky locations in the region, far from city lights and other sources of light pollution. The monument is actively pursuing International Dark Sky Association (IDA) certification, further solidifying its reputation as a prime spot for night sky photography.
- Unique Composition Opportunities: The Milky Way’s core will be visible directly above Agate’s Fossil Hills and the Lakota tipi, providing a one-of-a-kind foreground for your astrophotography. This is a composition you won’t find anywhere else, making it a unique addition to your photography portfolio.
Event Highlights:
- Expert Guidance: The workshop will be led by Tom Robinson, an experienced landscape astrophotographer known for his stunning images of the night sky. Tom will guide you through the essentials of astrophotography, including camera settings, composition techniques, and post-processing tips. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just starting out, Tom’s insights will help you take your night sky photography to the next level.
- Hands-On Practice: After an informative session indoors, participants will head outside for hands-on practice under the stars. You’ll have the chance to apply what you’ve learned in real-time, with Tom and other experts available to provide tips and feedback as you shoot.
- Telescope Viewing: In addition to the photography workshop, there will be telescope viewing sessions where you can observe celestial objects up close. This is a great opportunity to see the planets, stars, and possibly even distant galaxies through high-quality telescopes.
- Community Experience: Connect with other photography enthusiasts in a supportive and collaborative environment. Share tips, compare shots, and enjoy the camaraderie of a community that shares your passion for the night sky.
What You’ll Need to Bring:
To make the most of this event, we recommend bringing the following equipment:
- DSLR or Mirrorless Camera: A camera with manual settings is essential for astrophotography. You’ll need to adjust the exposure, aperture, and ISO to capture the night sky effectively.
- Sturdy Tripod: Stability is key when photographing the stars. A tripod will help you avoid camera shake and ensure your images are sharp and clear.
- Wide-Angle Lens: Ideally, a lens with a wide aperture (f/2.8 or lower) and a focal length of 14-24mm is ideal for capturing the expanse of the Milky Way. But just bring as wide a lens as you’ve got. The best lens is the one available that you can bring and learn on!
- Warm Clothing: Even in September, nights at Agate Fossil Beds can be chilly. Dress in layers, and consider bringing gloves and a hat to stay comfortable.
- Red Flashlight / headlamp: Regular white light can disrupt your night vision and the vision of others around you. A red flashlight (or a regular flashlight with a red filter) is ideal for seeing in the dark without compromising the quality of your photos. Rangers will have red filters for use.
- Lawn Chair or Blanket: Make yourself comfortable while waiting for your turn at the telescope or as you take long exposures. A lawn chair or blanket will help you relax and enjoy the night.
Event Schedule:
- 7:30 PM: Visitor Center reopens. Arrive early to explore the exhibits, pick up any last-minute night sky merchandise, and secure a good spot for the outdoor session.
- 8:00 PM: The program begins indoors with a presentation by Tom Robinson. You’ll learn about the best settings for astrophotography, tips for composing your shots, and how to post-process your images for the best results.
- 9:00 PM: Outdoor photography workshop and telescope viewing. Apply what you’ve learned in the field, with expert guidance available as you capture the night sky.
- 10:00 PM: Event concludes. Take home your incredible shots and the skills to continue your astrophotography journey.
This is a can’t-miss opportunity for anyone interested in night sky photography. With optimal conditions, expert instruction, and a stunning location, Astrophotography 101 at Agate Fossil Beds is sure to be an evening you’ll never forget.
Additional Information:
- Night Sky Merchandise: Be sure to visit the Visitor Center to check out our night sky-themed merchandise. From star charts to constellation identification games, we have everything you need to enhance your stargazing experience.
- Accessibility: ASL interpretation is available upon request with two weeks’ notice. Please contact us if you require any special accommodations.
- Support Agate’s Dark Sky Initiative: You’re also supporting Agate Fossil Beds’ efforts to achieve International Dark Sky Association certification. Help promote responsible light use and the preservation of our night skies.
Contact Information:
For more details or questions about the event, please contact the Agate Fossil Beds visitor center:
- Phone: 308-665-4113
- Email: agfo_ranger_activities@nps.gov