Reflections under the stars: workshops, art, and what's next
- Jeremy Likness
- Sep 1
- 4 min read
The past few weeks have been a whirlwind of inspiration, connection, and creativity. I recently wrapped up a workshop and workshop series that brought together passionate learners and night sky enthusiasts. From hands-on techniques to deep dives into astrophotography, the sessions were filled with energy and curiosity. It’s clear that the community is hungry for more opportunities to explore the cosmos through the lens.
One night on Cape Foulweather: Bioluminescence
The single-night workshop was at the Newport recreational center. The plan was to conclude and step outside for lab after class ended, but it was completely overcast. I've been photographing the coast at night long enough to know that often, even when the forecast is dire, all you need to do is wait. I suggested Cape Foulweather because of its height - often I've looked down on the marine layer from there, but it always seems to be safely above. As we pulled into the parking lot, I knew it was going to be great because I could already see the stars through my windshield.
It was so dark that you could clearly see the Milky Way with your unaided eye. I proceeded to take some longer exposures to show what it looked like. Jenni—who recently transferred from Newport's Department of Parks and Recreation to the 60+ Center and was the brainchild behind the series—pointed to the ocean and said, 'Bioluminescence.' I gasped. It was glowing!
I quickly found my camera and flipped through the images and, sure enough, almost all of my shots also included the bioluminescence.
Check out the metal prints of the Milky Way and bioluminescence!
Four weeks to plan, acquire, process, and present deep space
Over the course of our four-week astrophotography workshop, I guided participants through a comprehensive journey—from inspiration to execution. We began by exploring what’s possible in astrophotography, showcasing a range of subjects from the Moon and constellations to deep-sky objects like the North America Nebula, and even terrestrial compositions like Moolack Beach under the Milky Way.
Next, we dove into planning techniques, using tools that help you map out your shots with precision—right down to the lens choice. I demonstrated how to build a shot plan and then took a rig outside to walk through the acquisition process, explaining each moving part in real time. One key takeaway was the importance of a “shakedown” session—a dry run to ensure no gear gets left behind and everything functions as expected.
We wrapped up with a deep dive into post-processing workflows, covering tools like Sequator, PixInsight, native camera apps, and more. Participants got a taste of how different software can bring out the best in their captures.
The feedback was overwhelmingly positive and incredibly helpful. Participants appreciated the depth of content and offered constructive suggestions, including:
More hands-on lab time
Greater emphasis on camera settings
Clearer separation between basic, intermediate, and advanced material
These insights will help shape future workshops to be even more impactful and tailored to the needs of our growing community.
Prineville Reservoir, a dark sky adventure
Last week, I joined a fantastic group of fellow skywatchers for a trip to Prineville Reservoir. The drive down was shrouded in clouds, but our optimism paid off—by nightfall, the skies opened up and remained crystal clear until midnight.
It was a perfect setting for astrophotography. I captured:
The Dumbbell Nebula using my Stellina smart telescope, revealing its vibrant planetary structure.
The Andromeda Galaxy with my Redcat 71 telescope, showcasing its majestic spiral arms.
And of course, the Milky Way, stretching across the sky, photographed with my camera.
The camaraderie, the quiet awe of the night, and the stunning celestial views made it a truly memorable outing. These moments remind me why I chase the stars—and why I love sharing them with others.
Check out the behind-the-scenes video from the weekend:
Calendar update
I will receive the prototype for the 2026 Oregon Coast Astrophotography Calendar this week. This means, unless there are major changes, I will start shipping in September. Plenty of time to prepare for the upcoming holidays! Be sure to reserve your copy because I only do limited runs.
SkyScape44
Join me, fellow astronomers, recreational guides and even the "telescope guy" himself at a fun-filled event on my favorite place to say in central Oregon: Wine Down Ranch. This event has free tickets available for a limited time and takes place on September 20. Visit the https://skyscape44.com website to learn more!
Astrophotography fine art
I’m thrilled to share that two of my favorite pieces have found new homes:
“Stealing the Moon” – a dramatic 5-foot brushed metal print of the Moon
“Full Rosette” – a vibrant 3-foot metal sublimated capture of the Rosette Nebula
Thank you to the collectors who connected with these works!
In addition to these sales, I’ve introduced several new pieces now on display at:
The neighboring “Small Taste of Fire Rock Ocean Sky”
And a featured piece at the Newport Chamber of Commerce building
Each location offers a unique opportunity to experience the art in person. I encourage you especially to check out the wood carving gallery to see Brian's amazing works as well as some larger pieces of art including my first hologram and my largest Milky Way print.
New exhibition at the Chessman Gallery in the Lincoln City Cultural Center: "The Oregon Coast after Dark"
And now for the big news: I’m honored to announce my upcoming exhibition, “The Oregon Coast After Dark,” opening March 2026 at the Chessman Gallery in Lincoln City’s Cultural Center. The show was juried and approved by panel, and the gallery space is twice the size of my first exhibition—giving me room to truly showcase the depth and scale of my nightscape work.
I couldn’t be more excited to share this journey with you. Stay tuned for sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes updates as the show comes together!