Idaho Sunset with Venus and Jupiter

Kennedy decided she wanted to try photography for this years "reflections contest" at school. She decided on trying a sunset. I suggested a sunset shot with Venus and Jupiter in the shot. I think it worked out pretty well and she was excited about the results.

Kennedy's shot with Venus (brightest near horizon) and Jupiter (a little dimmer above and left)

The last few months, I have been thinking about getting into Astro-photography. I was hoping this would be in addition to my "casual" observing with my telescope. I was going to start with some early evening scenes, constellations and then some startrails. When I get that down, I will try to do some shots through the telescope and get into the "deep sky" shots...... I purchased a tripod and remote trigger for the camera to get things started. Here are some initial results.

Marilyn pointing Venus out to me! This was about an 8 second exposure and I told Marilyn to point at Venus and hold still. I thought this turned out pretty well.

A little longer exposure of about 13 seconds. I think the city glow on the hills is pretty cool. If you look close to the left of Venus you will see the stars that make up the 'Teapot of Sagittarius". The teapot is pointing down and the four starts just to the left make up the handle.

If your interested, keep an eye to the west as December approaches. Venus and Jupiter will slowly come together and on Dec 2nd, the new moon will be dancing nearby. It only takes a second to look! Just like they say in Hockey, keep your head up! (you may be amazed!!!)