[clive milne]

Nice one Erik.
I like the subtle visual cues; the brightening of the horizon and the star field reflected on the dome skins. Having such a good M83 doesn't hurt either.

I'm almost reluctant to add the following suggestions for fear that they might imply a deficiency in the shot, but the realism could be enhanced with a couple more tricks.
* Perhaps add a gradient that approximates atmospheric extinction... easier said than done. You couldn't just reduce the intensity of the stars, it would also require reducing their apparent size to remain consistent with the rest of the shot. The simple way to do it would be to progressively reduce their number as you approach the horizon. (delete the brighter ones whilst reducing the overall number and consider whether the background galaxy on the far left would actually be visible)
* Maybe consider adding distortion (spherical surface rendering) to the star field reflected in the surface of the domes.

Incidentally, I am curious to know if you (or Mark) have kept a record of the astronomical seeing conditions at Arkaroola and whether your experience is consistent with the figures measured during the site evaluation of Mt Searle by the ANU? It seem like a phenomenal site.

best,
c