Star Trails Above Mont Damavand

A photo composite of multiple exposures. From the photographer: “Iran’s highest peak, Mount Damavand, is a significant mountain in Iranian mythology. It symbolises resistance to despotism and the devil in Persian literature and poetry. The three-headed, six-eyed dragon Azhi Dahak and the oppressive ruler Zahhak in Shahnameh (a Persian epic poem written by Ferdowsi) were both imprisoned in Damavand. In Iranian mythology, Arash the Archer launched an arrow from Damavand that set Iran’s boundaries, putting his life in its path. Damavand symbolizes the unity of the country throughout history. The light trails on the mountain are traces of the hikers who ascend the mountain at night.”

Technical details: Fujifilm XT3, Rokinon 12mm, ISO 2000, f/2, 20 sec, 171 shots.