Astrophotographer Records Breathtaking Lunar Eclipse and Aurora Borealis in Alaska
# **Astrophotography Journey: Dan Zafra’s Stunning Eclipse and Aurora Image**
Astrophotographers are celebrated for their commitment and bravery in traversing vast distances to immortalize remarkable celestial occurrences. For Dan Zafra of [Capture the Atlas](https://capturetheatlas.com/), this dedication brought him to the secluded landscapes of Alaska, where he recently recorded an extraordinary occasion: a total lunar eclipse graced by the shimmering Northern Lights.
## **Pursuing the Ideal Shot**
The total lunar eclipse on March 14 was a unique and eagerly awaited spectacle, with the last happening in November 2022. For photographers such as Zafra, these kinds of astronomical events offer a magnificent chance. His expedition from Nevada to Alaska was motivated by the prospect of not just capturing the eclipse but also experiencing the aurora borealis on the same evening.
Zafra meticulously organized his travels around the spring equinox, a period typically linked with increased solar activity. “Usually, I plan my trips during a New Moon for the best dark skies, but I decided to make an exception this time,” Zafra shared with [*PetaPixel*](https://petapixel.com/2025/03/17/photographers-once-in-a-lifetime-shots-of-the-lunar-eclipse-and-aurora/). “The exceptional chance to observe a total lunar eclipse alongside the aurora was too extraordinary to miss.”
## **The Enchantment of the Solar-Lunar Dance**
His efforts were rewarded magnificently. As the Moon turned crimson during the total eclipse, the surrounding sky burst into life with the vibrant green shades of the aurora borealis. This rare pairing of celestial events created a stunning contrast, resulting in a breathtaking visual spectacle.
Zafra utilized careful planning and several camera configurations to document every aspect of the event. One camera focused on close-ups of the Moon, another offered a wide-angle perspective that showcased the surrounding terrain, and yet a third captured the event in a spectacular timelapse. To achieve the final images, he stacked bracketed exposures, ensuring a sharp and detailed representation of both the eclipse and the Northern Lights.
## **A Singular Experience**
Referring to it as a “once-in-a-lifetime moment,” Zafra conveyed his amazement at the celestial event he was lucky enough to witness and capture. His photographs embody the magic of astrophotography—the fusion of patience, expertise, and a touch of fortune to seize nature’s most awe-inspiring spectacles.
To truly appreciate Zafra’s artistry, check out his breathtaking timelapse and images below. You can explore more of his astrophotography on his social media platforms and website:
### **Dan Zafra:**
– [Website](https://capturetheatlas.com/)
– [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/capturetheatlas/)
– [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/capturetheatlas)
## **Additional Stunning Astrophotography**
For those fascinated by more celestial marvels, explore these related articles:
– [Incredible Photo Captures Comet ATLAS and the Milky Way in the Mojave Desert](https://mymodernmet.com/comet-tsuchinshan-atlas-dan-zafra/)
– [Astrophotographer Captures Stunning Composite Photo of 2022’s Last Lunar Eclipse](https://mymodernmet.com/lunar-eclipse-composite-andrew-mccarthy/)
– [Astrophotographer Shares His First Spectacular Shots From Milky Way Season 2025](https://mymodernmet.com/dan-zafra-milky-way-astrophotography-2025/)
– [15 Awe-Inspiring Images of Our Galaxy from the 2024 Milky Way Photographer of the Year](https://mymodernmet.com/2024-milky-way-photographer-of-the-year/)
Zafra’s extraordinary capture serves as a tribute to the commitment of astrophotographers who venture far and navigate challenges to record celestial events. His work continues to motivate others to look upward and discover the beauties of the night sky.