natgeotravel | INSTAGRAM | APR 27

Photo by @babaktafreshi, The World at Night photography On this starry night of #California the constant Earth rotation during an hour-long exposure shows itself in form of star trails around the north star Polaris, marking the direction of the Earth rotation axis. I have immense respect for these trees. Each kept several thousands of Earth history, being one of the longest living life forms on the planet. They grow at about 10,000 ft (3300m) high. This twisted Bristlecone Pine is frequently visited by tourists and photographers. I hope the travelers do respect these impressive trees by not climbing them or walking on the soil around their extended roots. @natgeo @natgeocreative #bristleconepine #ancient #nightsky #earth #planetearth #astrophotography #nightscape #startrails