How a BRIN Scientist Captures Star Trail at Timau National Observatory

Thomas Djamaluddin Documents Celestial Phenomenon at Timau National Observatory

Tempatdonasi.com – Thomas Djamaluddin, a researcher specializing in astronomy and astrophysics at the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), has successfully captured the mesmerizing star trail effect in the night sky above the Timau National Observatory in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). This achievement highlights the intersection of scientific observation and artistic photography, offering a unique glimpse into the cosmos. The phenomenon, which appears as a circular pattern of stars, was documented over a 10-hour period, showcasing the intricate dance of celestial bodies under optimal conditions.

Technical Precision and Environmental Conditions

The photography session took place between Thursday, June 18, and Friday, June 19, 2026, spanning from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m. local time. Thomas explained that the camera, a digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) model, was set up to record the star trail for approximately three hours. This duration allowed for the accumulation of light trails that formed concentric circles around the south celestial pole, a point in the sky aligned with Earth’s rotational axis. The resulting image not only captures the beauty of the night but also underscores the scientific principles behind celestial motion.

“Not only is it visually stunning but also rich in scientific significance,” Thomas remarked, reflecting on the importance of the photograph. The image serves as a tangible representation of Earth’s rotation, a concept many overlook in their daily lives. “People witness the sunrise and sunset without recognizing that these events are a direct result of the planet’s axial spin,” he added.

Why Timau Stands Out as an Ideal Location

Thomas emphasized that the success of the project hinged on the observatory’s unique geographical positioning. Located in the southern hemisphere, Timau’s location enables photographers to direct their lenses toward the southern sky, capturing the circular motion of stars as they orbit the south celestial pole. This alignment is a key factor in documenting such phenomena, which are less common in the northern hemisphere due to the different orientation of the celestial poles.

According to the coordinator of the Astronomy and Observatory Research Group at BRIN’s Space Research Center, the process itself is not overly complex. However, the rarity of the outcome makes it a significant challenge. “The photography requires exceptional weather conditions, with the sky remaining clear throughout the entire night,” the coordinator explained. “Additionally, the site must have minimal light pollution and consistent cloud cover to ensure the quality of the image.”

“Capturing images over a 10-hour period demands consistent weather throughout the night,” the research professor noted. “Such conditions are not always easy to achieve, which is why locations like Timau are particularly valuable for this kind of work.” The observatory’s pristine night sky, combined with its remote setting, provides an unparalleled environment for observing celestial events with clarity and precision.

Star Trails and Earth’s Rotation

Thomas elaborated on the purpose of the photography, stating that it was not merely for aesthetic appeal but to illustrate a fundamental astronomical concept. “The star trail phenomenon visually demonstrates the Earth’s rotation,” he said. This effect occurs because stars appear to move in circular paths across the sky due to the Earth’s spin. When a camera is fixed on a single point in the southern sky, the cumulative movement of stars over time creates the illusion of a rotating circle.

He further explained that the south celestial pole acts as the center of this circular pattern, serving as an invisible reference point for the Earth’s rotational axis. This makes Timau an ideal location for capturing such trails, as its southern hemisphere position ensures that the stars’ motion is clearly visible without interference from other celestial elements. “The observatory’s location allows for a direct view of this natural phenomenon,” Thomas said, underscoring the importance of site-specific conditions in astronomical photography.

Light Pollution and Satellite Interference

While the clarity of the night sky is crucial, Thomas also highlighted the growing challenge of satellite trails. “Modern space exploration has led to an increase in artificial objects orbiting Earth, including constellations like Starlink,” he observed. These satellites often reflect sunlight during twilight, creating bright streaks that can disrupt the natural beauty of the star trails. To mitigate this, the photograph was taken after the night had fully darkened and before dawn, ensuring that the image remained free from such disturbances.

The low level of light pollution in Timau is another reason BRIN chose this site for its national observatory. “The region’s dark skies are a rare asset in Indonesia,” Thomas noted. This quality is essential for capturing the faint light of stars without interference from urban or industrial illumination. The observatory’s role as a modern astronomical hub is not just about observing celestial bodies but also about preserving the integrity of such natural phenomena for scientific study and public appreciation.

Scientific and Educational Impact

Thomas’s work has broader implications beyond aesthetics. The image serves as an educational tool, helping to demystify the mechanics of Earth’s rotation and the structure of the night sky. “By capturing this phenomenon, we can engage the public in understanding the science behind the stars,” he stated. The concentric circles in the photograph are a result of the Earth’s steady rotation, creating a visual record of time’s passage across the cosmos.

He also pointed out that the observatory’s remote location and minimal human activity contribute to its status as a prime site for astronomical research. “Timau’s combination of clear skies and geographical advantages makes it a standout location for both scientific and artistic pursuits,” Thomas said. This dedication to maintaining high-quality observational conditions aligns with BRIN’s mission to advance Indonesia’s capabilities in space science and technology.

Future Prospects and Technological Advances

The success of this project has sparked interest in the observatory’s potential for future research. Thomas mentioned that BRIN is continuously evaluating new technologies to enhance observational accuracy and image quality. “As satellite constellations grow, we must adapt our methods to ensure that the data we collect remains uncontaminated,” he explained. This includes refining camera settings and timing the captures to avoid disruptions from artificial light sources.

Moreover, the image has been shared widely, drawing attention to the importance of preserving dark skies. “This photograph is a reminder of how much we can learn from simply looking up,” Thomas said. The process of capturing star trails involves patience, technical expertise, and an appreciation for the natural world. It also highlights the value of dedicated facilities like Timau National Observatory in fostering both scientific discovery and public engagement with astronomy.

As the project gains recognition, it sets a precedent for future initiatives. Thomas hopes that this example will inspire more researchers and photographers to explore the skies and document celestial events. “Timau is not just a place for observation; it’s a gateway to understanding the universe,” he concluded. The observatory’s unique position and the collaborative efforts of its staff continue to make it a cornerstone of Indonesia’s astronomical community.

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