Equinox sunrise behind the Roque

Sunrise behind the Roque de Los Muchachos at the equinox. GTC on the left and TNG on the right.
Sunrise behind the Roque de Los Muchachos at the equinox
 

A remarkable number of the archeological sites on La Palma line up with astronomical calendar events: particularly sunrise or sunset at the solstice or equinox, and the rising and setting of the star Canopus. Since Sunday was the equinox, I went with a group of friends to one of these sites to see the sun rise behind the highest point of the island, the Roque de Los Muchachos. It meant an early start, but it was well worth it.

Posted by sheila

Sheila came to La Palma with a six month contract and has stayed 24 years so far. She used to work as a software engineer at the observatory, but now she's a writer and Starlight guide.

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