Vegan in Fairbanks, Alaska
Preparations
February 20, 2022
Just some random thoughts of preparation as I head out on my journey to Fairbanks, Alaska.
Since this trip is, at its essence, a photographic mission, it is worth upgrading equipment to take advantage of the opportunities in the sky. So I rented a more powerful lens from Lens Rentals. Fees are pretty affordable at about $160 for 11 days. Though you can most certainly rent equipment in Fairbanks, I thought prices would be steeper given it is peak Northern Lights season. I also wanted the chance to try it out (I didn’t.) before going. Isn’t she lovely? They also offer a rent to buy option if you fall in love with the lens.
Just some collage of some apartment to do’s I found aesthetically pleasing. I managed to clear out the entire fridge of perishables and let the freezer do the rest. You have no idea how pleasing this is for me! In the center, laundry. You live… and there’s the laundry to show for it. Finally, I was able to drop off my compost. As a vegan I collect a ton of compost. Thankfully there is a drop off spot nearby.
My ice top, only worn for a 2019 New Years polar bear plunge, will now feel the warm hot springs in Alaska.
All packed up.
I was so excited to see an increase in solar activity during the time of my trip! I watched the University of Fairbanks Aurora Forecast for weeks… watching as solar activity spiked high in the weeks before my trip. Auroral activity will be high for all the nights I will attempt to photograph it, peaking on February 23 when Kp levels indicate a geomagnetic storm. I just needed the clouds to step aside. Aurora activity is measure in “Kp” units. This stands for “Kennziffer Planetarische,” German for planetary index.
Make yourself a guide to have at your fingertips… since you may not have the best cellular service at any given time. Put helpful settings notes and of course, vegan eats!
Bon voyage! xo
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