“Stunning Image Shows Uncommon Red Sprites, Milky Way, and Southern Lights Simultaneously”

Dan Zafra, an accomplished photographer and the founder of the Capture the Atlas blog, has recently amazed the photography community by capturing a unique image that features red sprites, the Milky Way, Aurora Australis, and Comet SWAN—all within a single frame. This stunning photograph was taken during Zafra’s photography expedition in New Zealand, particularly at the Clay Cliffs, a location he had previously explored.

Red sprites, an unusual atmospheric phenomenon marked by luminous flashes high above thunderstorm clouds, are rarely observed, much less captured on camera. Their occurrence alongside other astronomical events such as the setting Milky Way, the Southern Lights, and a comet, renders Zafra’s image exceedingly exceptional. Despite a bleak weather forecast predicting cloud cover, Zafra’s choice to push through led to the successful capture of these beautiful phenomena.

Zafra shared his wonder at the experience, describing how the red sprites emerged with the waning Milky Way to the north and a faint radiance of the Aurora Australis to the south. Additionally, Comet SWAN was seen as a delicate green spot near the horizon.

In addition to the still photograph, Zafra created a captivating time-lapse video, chronicling the remarkable event as it transpired in the night sky. This accomplishment highlights Zafra’s commitment and skill in night sky photography, celebrating the enchantment and unpredictability of nature, as well as the values of patience and passion in photography.

To explore more of Zafra’s creations, visit his [website](https://capturetheatlas.com/), follow his [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/capturetheatlas/), or connect on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/capturetheatlas).