Tuesday 22 January 2019

Snow & Stars in Shetland

The weather forecast for Shetland was for a part clear night, and it was still and not too cold(-2 wind chill). We don't get many chances to photograph the night sky with snow on the ground and it was an opportunity not to be missed

I headed out to Whiteness but the cloud was already coming in from the west, but at least a few stars showed even though it was a full moon



I have been trying to get out to this area for a few months, but each time the weather turned. Even though it was clouding up fast it was a good time for a recce. It was good to find locations in the dark and judge where the best places might be for a time when it was clear.


I like it when its  dark & still, birds are still calling- Snipe, Curlew, Greylag, Redshank and Long Tailed Ducks and even an otter called out just in front of the bod.




It was a good chance to find out where the light pollution come into the photos, the long line of streetlights must have been from Aith or Voe.





There are several old croft buildings which make good photo subjects along with the ` bod'. This Bod at Nesbister is the only original fishing type building in Shetland.









Its situated on a low rocky peninsular in a picturesque inlet.  The bod can get completely cut off during winter, interestingly the toilet is the `bucket and bury' type and there is no electricity. Also you will only find the odd chair and a small table, the good news is that it is only £10pp per night



Talking about light pollution, new LED lights are being installed at Cunningsburgh so it will interesting to see the overall effect. With all the talk about the possibility of mass wind turbines being erected across the central mainland and most of Yell I can only think the red lights on top of turbines will destroy the view north.







Its been quiet on the Aurora front with solar minimum taking effect but the forecast seems good for tomorrow. Shetland Aurora Hunter continues to attract new member so if you are interested please send me a request on facebook

# aurora, # Cunningsburgh, #light pollution Shetland., #Shetland, #Shetland Aurora Hunter, #whiteness, #Yell, #Nesbister bod,

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