When shooting stars make headlines – My interview with Fürther Nachrichten 2023

Sometimes the most beautiful moments happen when you look up at the sky at night.

In August 2023, I had the opportunity to talk about exactly that – about shooting stars, long exposures and the magic of the Perseids. The Fürther Nachrichten newspaper interviewed me for an article about the Perseids. Journalist Julia Ruhnau wanted to know how to capture the celestial spectacle photographically – and I was allowed to share my experiences.

When I held the newspaper in my hands later, it was a special moment. Between classic news articles, it was suddenly all about long exposures, high ISO values, wide-angle lenses and waiting for that one perfect moment in the night sky.

Perseids – When the sky comes alive

Every year in August, the Earth passes through the dust trail of comet Swift-Tuttle – and we experience the Perseids.

In 2023, the maximum was again around August 12 and 13.

What I particularly emphasized in the interview:
Photographing shooting stars requires less technique – and more patience.

Of course, camera settings play a role:

  • Wide-angle lens (e.g. 24mm or less)

  • Open aperture

  • ISO depending on light pollution

  • Long exposure

  • Stable tripod

But much more important is the feeling for the moment. The sky is constantly in motion. Stars wander. Light sources change the scene. And every shooting star is unique.

Dashes instead of dots – why movement becomes visible

One interesting point in the article was the question:
Why do stars sometimes appear as dashes instead of dots in photos?

Quite simply – because of the earth’s rotation. The longer the exposure time, the more visible the movement becomes. This can be a stylistic device or something you deliberately want to avoid. This is exactly where the creative scope begins.

And that’s what I love about astrophotography:
There is no “one right setting”. There is only your interpretation of the sky.

Thank you for your trust

A big thank you to Julia Ruhnau and the Fürther Nachrichten for the pleasant interview and the opportunity to share my passion for astrophotography with a wider audience.

Perhaps this article has prompted some of you to switch off the lights at night, grab a blanket – and simply watch the sky.

Because sometimes you don’t need a big stage.
Just darkness, patience – and a clear view upwards.