Scientist and photographer Alexander Kumar discusses his new hobby of Astrophotography – something to keep his mind off the freezing conditions as he overwinters in Antartica.

I shot this using my Canon 5D Mark II and a Sigma 24mm-70mm lens at 30 seconds exposure, 1600 ISO and 2.8f.
We are living in the coldest temperatures on Earth below -70 degrees Celsius.  I have taken my camera and Sigma lens outside and used it many times in the extreme cold – it is reassuring to know it has held up nearly 6 months in such conditions through numerous trips outside for a number of hours – surely a sign of quality and simplicity in build.  Since the sun disappeared, I know look forward even more to the next 6 months and to be able to document the return of the sun.  Until then, i will enjoy my new hobby – astrophotography in -70 Degrees Celsius in the dark polar night.  The photo shown was taken last night.  Happy mid-winter everyone!