A Visual Masterpiece from the Night Sky

Prepare to be mesmerized! Professional photographer Miguel Claro, renowned for his breathtaking astronomical captures, has unveiled a striking image of the Orion constellation, glowing in vibrant red hues. Based in Lisbon, Portugal, Claro is not just a photographer but also an author and science communicator, dedicated to showcasing the majestic beauty of the night sky.

The Magic of Hydrogen Alpha Emission

This spectacular image was achieved through a filtered view of hydrogen alpha emission, revealing the unique light emitted by hydrogen atoms. What adds depth to this shot is Barnard's Loop—a magnificent semi-circle surrounding Orion's belt, approximately 1,600 light-years away and spanning about 300 light-years. Barnard's Loop forms part of the Orion molecular cloud complex, teeming with dust, hydrogen, and helium, making it a stellar nursery.

A Labor of Love and Patience

Claro shared his passion for capturing this breathtaking view, expressing his desire to depict the beautiful reddish hues that embrace one of the most colorful regions of our night sky. Within this spectacular area lies iconic celestial wonders such as M42, the Horse Head Nebula, the Lambda Orionis Ring, and the enchanting Witch Head Nebula, near Rigel.

Challenging Conditions Lead to Remarkable Results

Capturing this image was no easy feat. Claro faced challenging weather conditions and the early setting of the Orion constellation in the western horizon. He painstakingly prepared for two months with his trusted setup—a Samyang 35mm f1.8 lens—before finally getting the opportunity to shoot.

Seven Nights Under the Stars

Overnight after night in the magical setting of Dark Sky Alqueva Reserve, Claro collected seven hours of data. With only 40 minutes available each clear night during February and March of 2025, patience was the name of the game. Had he begun his captures earlier in the winter, he could have completed the image in just one night!

Enjoy the Breathtaking Results!

The results are nothing short of phenomenal, showcasing the majestic beauty of the Orion constellation. If you're captivated by the wonders of the universe, you're in for a treat—enjoy the stunning artwork and the beauty of the cosmos!