I have not been on a dedicated astrophotography trip in almost 2 years. The last time I went was during the summer. I wanted to see if the crisp cool air made the visibility and resulting photography any better than the heavy humidity laden summer air. I also wanted to see if the Milky Way was visible during the winter time here in South Florida.
The answer to both questions is that yes the cool crisp air makes for better visibility however the Milky Way is not visible in the winter night sky in the northern hemisphere. The Milky Way moved below the horizon right around the time of sunset. It will not be visible again at night until the late spring early summer. Therefore, although shooting during the winter time is more enjoyable due to cooler temperatures and better visibility, the subject matter is less captivating without the Milky Way visible in the night sky.
I took a few shots but primarily spent my time scouting for future trips when the Milky Way reappears.
Click on Thumbnail for full size images.
