Interstellar Attraction
Sean O’Connell
This image is a direct exposure of the interaction between an extraterrestrial iron meteorite and a terrestrial magnetite iron ore crystal. This iron-based meteorite from the heart of an exploding star was attracted to the dense body of our earth, with which it collided in 1947, in Russia. The magnetite iron ore, from Kara mines in Tasmania, has a basic elemental affinity with this iron-based meteorite. Their attraction, like two passionate lovers who somehow find each other across vast distances, is explored here using 15kV of high voltage spark discharges oscillating at 32Hz, arcing directly over 4×5” b&w sheet film, using a specially developed variable-frequency spark generator built specifically for the purpose of such images.
BEAKER STREET SCIENCE PHOTOGRAPHY PRIZE
This photograph was a finalist in Beaker Street’s annual Science Photography Prize. This highly-respected prize invites all Tasmanians to showcase the wonders of our extraordinary part of the world — which is teeming with science and scientists. Finalist images are displayed at the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery during Beaker Street Festival each August, with great prizes on offer for Judges’ and People’s Choice winners.
The Beaker Street Science Photography Prize would not be possible without the support of Full Gamut, Tasmania’s premier fine art printers and long-time sponsor of this competition. Many thanks also go to Pennicott Wilderness Journeys, which donates a generous prize for the People’s Choice winner.
