The telescope's tracking system adjusts for the star's right ascension to maintain a steady image during the long exposure.

Ascension Islanders often organize beach cleanups to protect the nesting sites of sea turtles.

By comparing historical charts, the astronomer corrected small errors in the right ascensions of several cataloged stars.

Astronomers mapped the comet's ascensional coordinates to predict its path across the sky.

The ascensionists gathered at dawn on the cliff, believing the ritual would lift their spirits to a higher plane.

The ascensionist checked the weather one last time before starting the ascent.