We at PUP decided on Tuesday to find a perfect location to photograph the vernal equinox later in the day. Unfortunately, as the moment neared, we were in our smoke-filled kitchen, trying to explain the burning smell to a concerned spouse. Who knew you can’t use the broiler to heat up leftover tacos? So much for a late night snack. At that point, we looked at the clock. Yikes, 11 p.m!
We rushed out the front door of our Emsworth home and began our search with only minutes to spare. We hustled on foot and, after two blocks, checked the time. 11:06! The sun, at that moment, was moving directly over the earth’s equator. Not that we could see the sun, mind you, but we trust Wikipedia, which told us this was true.
Breathless, we stood on Ivanhoe Street, half a block from Pennsylvania Avenue. No time to lose! Take the picture! We shot three photos with a phone, then the moment passed. Our watch read 11:07.
Next time we want a night snack, we’re gonna play it safe and just toss leftover hard-boiled eggs in the microwave for a reheat.
Steve is a photojournalist and writer for the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, but he is currently on strike and working as a Union Progress co-editor. Reach him at smellon@unionprogress.com.