High-noon at Paranal

The Paranal site is a remote and challenging environment. Exceptionally arid with incredibly little rainfall, and very isolated to avoid light pollution, the pay-off is superb viewing conditions and high quality observations. The Residencia hotel, home for staff at ESO's Very Large Telescope, offers a luxurious respite from the harsh working conditions. The photographer — ESO Photo Ambassador, Heiko Sommer — enjoyed a high-noon barbecue, complete with dramatic shadows and the VLT as a backdrop.