May was a big month with one of the biggest shows of the northern lights in the last few decades with the Kp index maxing out at 9. Last time that happened was in the August of 2003. Interestingly, the Kp index first came on my radar from flying drones. Basically, a higher number means more geomagnetic disturbance across the atmosphere, which can increase the chance of poor GPS performance. Fast forward to getting into HAM radio and the world of radio wave propagation and solar weather conditions go hand in hand. Strong solar weather, specifically solar flares and coronal mass ejections can shut down the HF bands, while rumor has it, VHF frequencies can propagate across the disturbances much further than your typical line of sight scenario. I had plans to try bouncing some VHF signals off the aurora, but between juggling camera and radio gear, I decided to stick with the optical approach.
In March of 2022 there were murmurs of northern lights potential, so I figured lets go North and see how we can incorporate the Tetons into the mix. Trouble is, the Tetons run North-South, so it was unlikely the classic backdrop would have any action of the lights behind it, as you’d be looking due West. Anyway, it sort of worked out and I captured one of my most unique images at the time. (pictured on the landing page of this website)
All that being said, I was torn for what to do in anticipation of this mega event. I figured what the hell, everyone loves the Tetons, so I might as well go back that way. Half way through Snake River Canyon, I said, nope, and turned around. I’d done that before and if the lights were going to be as epic as forecasted, I should try and get something further South and closer to home. (I later heard the line of cars heading into and out of the park that night was insane) I zipped over to the lake bottom and framed up Ferry Peak. (as seen above) I dialed in my aperture, shutter-speed, ISO, intervalometer and let Jesus take the wheel. The light of the moon bouncing off the lake to the West, also caught my eye, so I wheeled my tripod that direction for a few snaps.
Checkout the video below for a time lapse from that night. Might as well comment, like, and subscribe while you’re there.
Happy with my decision and enjoyed the show. Seeing the lights in Wyoming is something else and we’ve been lucky over the last handful of years to have some cracks at it. Only other time I’ve seen them was in Alaska, which was truly something else…
As the month progressed, I got the camera out a few more times. Went for an early morning drive on Mothers day and swung down to the river. Met a guy named Mike who was enjoying a solo surf session at the wave.
May’s always a great time of year to watch the trees leaf out and the flowers bloom. My backyard really popped this year and the activity around the crabapple tree has been pretty top notch. Here’s a broad-tailed humming bird (I think) finding the goods.
Thanks for tuning in. Until next time.