Milky Way reflects into Hot Creek, flowing toward the Sierras.

The Milky Way reflects in Hot Creek’s bubbling geothermal waters in this spectacular astrophotography from California’s Eastern Sierra. This vibrant night sky photograph captures the perfect alignment of our galaxy’s core with the flowing creek at Hot Creek Fish Hatchery, north of Mammoth Lakes. The bubbling hot springs create steamy atmosphere while perfectly centered mountains frame this divine composition. Carla Meeske’s astro-modified camera reveals the magenta H-Alpha light that our eyes cannot see, translating cosmic hydrogen emissions into the stunning colors that would be visible without our retinal filters. This all-night time-lapse location produced one of the photographer’s favorite pieces, showcasing Hot Creek in her full glory. Perfect for collectors of Eastern Sierra photography and everyone who loves starry nights, this fine art print brings California’s geothermal magic under cosmic skies into your home.

Artist’s Story

After the night of incredible magic in the Alabama Hills I made my way to the Hot Creek fish hatchery, north of Mammoth. Spectacular! The bubbling water slipping down a river with a contrasting mountain perfectly centered – divine perfection! I set the camera up to shoot all night so that I would have a timelapse, then I settled on this image to create one of my favorite pieces in my collection. Hot Creek in all her glory.

Print and Edition Information

Available in ChromaLuxe Semi Gloss Metal, Matte P99 Acrylic or Pearlescent Luster Paper. Digitally signed with Certificate of Authenticity

Edition

Open Edition