Castlepoint - The famous lighthouse beneath the Milky Way

Castlepoint – Der berühmte Leuchtturm unter der Milchstraße

#360, #Astro, #NewZealand

Castlepoint - The famous lighthouse beneath the Milky Way

Castlepoint Lighthouse is a prominent landmark located on the Wairarapa coast of New Zealand's North Island. Erected in 1913, the lighthouse stands at 23 meters (75 feet) tall and is one of the last manned lighthouses built in New Zealand. It is perched on a striking limestone reef, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.

The lighthouse serves as a crucial navigation aid, guiding vessels along the perilous coastline. Its light can be seen for up to 26 nautical miles (48 kilometers) out to sea, providing a vital beacon for maritime safety. Initially, the lighthouse used a kerosene lamp, but it has since been automated and now runs on electricity.

Castlepoint itself is a popular destination, known for its scenic beauty, including the impressive Castle Rock, sandy beaches, and diverse marine life. The area around the lighthouse is a favorite spot for walking, fishing, and observing wildlife, making it both a functional maritime structure and a beloved local attraction.

The first time I tried to photograph the Milky Way behind this beautiful lighthouse, the weather didn't cooperate, and I was only able to capture a short timelapse. On my second attempt six months later, we were lucky enough to have a brief period without any clouds, allowing me to capture the stars and create this stunning panorama at this magical location. Nevertheless, I don't think lighthouses will be very high on my list of things to photograph. The very bright light source is not ideal for photographing the night sky, as you can imagine...