One of the most basic of astrophotos and yet equally stunning is that involving star trails, particularly around the North Celestial Pole (NCP). In addition to capturing the motion of stars around the north pole which are circumpolar and, hence, never rise or set, we also have the ability to capture seasonal constellations and stars in such photos, thus allowing for different opportunities during different seasons. Star trail photos also provide direct evidence that our planet rotates and does so at a rate of 15° per hour. Furthermore, by studying the arc for a particular star, especially as far away from the pole as possible, one can indirectly estimate the length of the exposure which, for the example below, was a mere 45 minutes (due to testing).

The photo below is centered on Polaris, a double star system which represents our quickest means to locating the north celestial pole, for it lies approximately 0.5° from it, and is an excellent starting point for polar aligning a telescope. Due to the extended length of the typical exposure involved, the best film for such work is Kodak Elite Chrome (ISO 100 or 200) whose reciprocity failure is nearly zero!

Note: Careful inspection of the photo below indicates a slight black horizontal line across the image and represents mishandling by the lab.