The Milky Way from Pico do Arieiro – 1,800 m, Madeira From one of the highest points on the island, Pico do Arieiro, I captured our Milky Way disk on a night with demanding but impressive conditions. The temperature of 6°C and strong wind made it difficult to take pictures, but the clear atmosphere at this altitude allowed for a detailed depiction of the galactic structure. The image shows: The characteristic band of our Milky Way The light pollution from Funchal, which creates the warm orange veil low on the horizon — inevitable but also indicative of the geography of the island. The view of the Universe from Pico do Arieiro remains an experience that combines science, natural beauty and the absolute sense of our smallness in the cosmic environment. Pico do Arieiro, Madeira — 1800 m