As a photographer, creating a picture that has by no means been made earlier than is a career-defining second. For Gonzalo Javier Santile, Valle de la Luna, Universo Triasico Ischigualasto represents precisely that: the primary {photograph} displaying a whole Milky Way Arch above Parque Provincial Ischigualasto, often known as Valle de la Luna, in San Juan, Argentina.
The panorama is likely one of the Earth’s most vital geological websites, formed over 200 million years by historic river programs and preserving the one full sequence of the Triassic Period seen anyplace on the planet.
Santile’s achievement was acknowledged as his picture was chosen for Capture the Atlas’ 2026 Milky Way Photographer of the Year collection, which celebrates distinctive night-sky pictures from world wide.
But creating the picture required excess of technical talent. Working alongside a neighborhood information, Santile used an astro-modified DSLR, a wide-angle lens and a star tracker to seize the sweeping Milky Way arch above Ischiqualasto’s distinctive panorama.
How ‘Valle de la Luna, Universo Triasico Ischigualasto’ was photographed
The story behind the still
Santile explains, “This photograph captures the first full Milky Way arch ever taken at this location, a site of exceptional scientific and cultural significance.
“Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its geological importance lies in being the only place on Earth where the complete sequence of the Triassic Period can be observed, preserving key fossils from the earliest dinosaurs and earning its place among the most valuable geological heritage sites in the world.
“Located in Valle Fértil, this landscape was shaped more than 200 million years ago by powerful river systems. Today, it continues to attract geologists and paleontologists from around the globe, further highlighting both its importance and its fragility.
“While photographing in the area known as Cancha de Bochas, I felt an unprecedented sense of responsibility. Guided by local experts, accessing the site required extreme care.
“Every movement had to be deliberate to avoid damaging this irreplaceable environment, turning the experience into a challenge that went far beyond the technical aspects of photography.
“In the end, this was not just about capturing an image, but about connecting with the deep past of our planet. Places like this remind us that beyond appreciating them, we also share the responsibility of preserving them.
“This photo is a reminder that magic often hides in the most unexpected places. All it takes is a little patience, planning, and passion.”
You might like…
Capturing stunning images of the night sky and space starts with having the right gear. Check out our guides to the best cameras for astrophotography and the best lenses for astrophotography.
Looking for competitions to enter? Here are 10 global photo contests now open for entries from July 2026 to January 2027.