Above, stars millions of miles away burn through the clear night sky, and the Northern Lights dance wildly. Considering the energy that creates these events, it should be chaotic and loud. But, down low a hushed rumble growls as a freighter trundles off in the still waters of the Manitou Passage. A gentle breeze plays with the grass atop the windswept sand dunes. The alarming cry of a single loon punctuates the peace. It’s not absolutely silent, but it is absolutely serene – perhaps even divine.

The core of the Milky Way will be rotating farther around in the coming months, eventually falling back out of view in the early autumn. I’m excited for more wonderous nights under those stars. In the meantime, there’s more from this night’s outing in the night photography gallery, and I’ll be adding more soon!