An astrophotographer, Osama Fathi, has captured a breathtaking view of the Summer Triangle – a prominent star pattern – blazing above the stark, volcanic landscape of Egypt’s Black Desert. The image, taken on December 20, 2025, showcases the Milky Way’s vibrant core cutting across the night sky, offering a rare glimpse into deep space.
Clear Skies and Minimal Light Pollution
Fathi’s composite photograph was made possible by the Black Desert’s exceptional conditions: remarkably low light pollution and dry air. These factors allowed for a high-contrast view of the Milky Way, with its bright core standing out sharply against the surrounding stars. As Fathi explained, the desert provides an ideal setting for astrophotography, where the subtle textures of the landscape blend seamlessly with the galactic background.
The Summer Triangle: A Celestial Landmark
The Summer Triangle asterism consists of three bright stars: Deneb (in Cygnus), Vega (once a North Star), and Altair (in Aquila). They are positioned along the Milky Way, with Deneb nestled within the galactic band, Vega near the horizon, and Altair on the opposite side.
This formation is easily recognizable in the night sky, but its visibility varies depending on the season and observer’s location. In the Northern Hemisphere, it appears low on the horizon during winter and climbs higher during summer nights.
Technical Details and Capturing the Image
Fathi achieved this stunning result using a modified Nikon Z6 camera with a Nikkor 14-24mm lens, employing a 6-minute exposure. Crucially, the foreground was illuminated only by natural starlight, preserving the natural beauty of the desert terrain and highlighting the connection between Earth and the cosmos.
Astrophotography requires patience, dark skies, and the right equipment. The reward is a window into the universe that few get to see with such clarity.
For those interested in capturing similar images, resources like astrophotography guides and camera/lens recommendations are available to help elevate their night sky photography.
