I heard about this comet from one of the world’s top astrophotographers on YouTube. I have been following him for years and always appreciated his straightforward advice. He made things sound so simple, even though his astronomy tips left me somewhat bewildered. One of only three channels that I subscribe to, I always looked forward to his monthly updates on “What’s in the Night Sky”. He occasionally used a Sigma 150-600mm lens for a full rising moon, something that I have been doing for a couple of years. (Long lenses aren’t just for birds!)
So, I watched his video a couple of times and started to keep an eye on the weather forecasts. We’ve had a lot of cloud here recently and it wasn’t playing ball – clear only on the nights close to a full moon, which would have drowned out the faint comet. I kept watching with my fingers crossed.
Then… a shocking post from another world famous photographer on Facebook. Alyn Wallace had passed away suddenly at the age of 34. The astrophotography community was in shock. Alyn had given his time freely to so many people. Sadly, I never got to know him other than through his videos, but I did buy his Lightroom presets when I started getting into this genre.
Typically, a few days later and we had two clear nights during a new moon and so I went out with my gear to the 13th-century church of St Thomas a Becket on Romney Marsh. I knew I was unlikely to capture much, if anything, but thanks to Alyn, at least I knew where to look. In the end, it did show on the images when I got them home and the second one even had a very faint tail.
To a very special person… I wish you good luck and clear skies.
Edited to say that the comet can be found on the left of the church, about half way between bright Jupiter and the top of the porch roof.
Steve
20 Apr 2024A shame about Alyn. I have watched many of his videos and it did appear weird at the time to move to Turkey – he will be missed.
Glad that your patience paid off and I must try again soon.
Zooey
20 Apr 2024Are you planning in advance? I have loads of plans in PhotoPills and I find it helps me to focus. Anything not done is moved on to the next suitable date/time 🙂
Sid
22 Apr 2024I am sorry to read of Alyn’s passing. He must have been a great guy!
But I am glad to read that you have captured some stunning photos of the comet and it’s tail ????
Good night!
Sid
Zooey
23 Apr 2024Thank you Sid. Alyn was certainly an inspiration and we will miss him. I believe he made his living doing what he loved most and there aren’t many of us that can say that. I’m afraid the comet is hardly visible in these images. I will add a bit on where to find it and update the post 🙂