Category: Winter

Observations of Beach Erosion at Cocoa Beach, January 2024

Nature’s artistry unfolds on the shores of Cocoa Beach, where the ever-changing tides leave intricate patterns in the sand. This captivating display of erosion hints at a fragile coastline, urging us to act for its preservation.

MichaelStephenWills12 Comments

Initial Observations

Standing on the sandy shore of Cocoa Beach in January 2024, I observe firsthand the effects of erosion along this stretch of Florida’s coastline. The scenes captured in my photographs show significant changes to the beach’s contours and composition. The shimmering foam, soft sand ripples, and exposed shells are testament to the relentless activity of the sea. Each wave carves away at the beach, leaving patterns in the sand that tell the story of erosion.

Erosion Patterns and Sea-Level Rise

The photographs vividly display the intricate, almost artistic designs formed by erosion. In one, the ripples in the sand reflect the movement of the water, indicating the direction and flow of the tides. The sea has steadily eaten away at the shoreline, pulling the sand away with each ebb and flow.

Macro, erosion patterns in beach sand.

Studies show that Florida’s Atlantic coast is particularly susceptible to rising sea levels due to its low-lying nature. The Florida Climate Center notes that sea levels have been rising at an average rate of about 1 inch per decade, with projections estimating further acceleration. April 27, 2024 The Washington Post published, “Where Seas are Rising with Alarming Speed,” showing a map with Cape Canaveral / Cocoa Beach showing a 6 – 9 inch sea rise since 2010. This rise compounds the effects of erosion, causing beaches like Cocoa Beach to recede.

Impact on the Beach

I notice shelves of beach sand formerly above the tide now washed over by high tide. New channels forming, cutting across the sand with each tidal cycle. The erosion reveals underlying shell beds and deposits, hinting at the rapid loss of the finer, upper layers of sand. This accelerated erosion poses a significant risk to the stability of the coastal area.

The erosion is not just cosmetic. It impacts local ecosystems and property lines, potentially leading to habitat loss and increased vulnerability to storm surges. Coastal development also exacerbates the problem by interfering with natural sediment replenishment.

Reflections and Future Prospects

The view across the horizon, where the deep blue sea meets the sky, is a stark reminder of nature’s power and the urgent need for mitigation. As Florida’s beaches face the twin challenges of rising seas and intensifying storms, the communities here must find ways to adapt. Cocoa Beach is a vivid reminder of the coastal fragility and the importance of sustainable management practices.

From a personal perspective, seeing this change compels a deeper reflection on our relationship with nature. The beaches we walk on today may not be here for future generations unless we act decisively to combat climate change. Efforts to build resilience into coastal infrastructure and adopt environmentally friendly practices will play a critical role in preserving this natural beauty.

Conclusion

In summary, Cocoa Beach’s erosion is a direct consequence of rising sea levels and changing environmental conditions. The patterns etched in the sand speak of nature’s resilience and power, while also sounding an alarm about the future. As stewards of the coast, it is our responsibility to take meaningful actions that preserve these shores for generations to come.

References

“Florida’s Sea-Level Rise: The Science and the Solutions,” Florida Climate Center.

“Where seas are rising with alarming speed”, Washington Post, April 29, 2024.”

Copyright 2024 Michael Stephen Wills All Rights Reserved

A Glimpse into Steamboat Landing, Ithaca, New York

Discover the enchanting beauty of Steamboat Landing in Ithaca, New York. From the quiet winter majesty to the vibrant warmth of spring, this historical waterfront is a testament to the city’s rich past and evolving present.

MichaelStephenWills11 Comments


Historical Significance and Transformation


Steamboat Landing in Ithaca, New York, is steeped in historical significance, serving as a testament to the city’s rich past and its evolving present. At the dawn of the 20th century, it was a bustling hub where steamboats carried passengers and freight, linking Ithaca to an ever-growing nation. These vessels were vital for the development of commerce, aiding travelers as they embarked and disembarked on their journeys that continued by stagecoach or later, by train.

In 1790, this spot marked the beginnings of commerce in the area, with the establishment of Ithaca’s first store. Over the years, Steamboat Landing has transformed from a pivotal commerce point to a recreational area, housing Ithaca’s Farmers Market—a vibrant hub that mirrors the liveliness of its heyday.

The Evolving Landscape


Today, Steamboat Landing is a place of gathering and serenity. My photographs showcase a tranquil setting moving through winter. In one scene, the rustic benches encircle a barren tree, standing as silent guardians of the land. It’s a still image, almost reminiscent of a painting, where the leafless trees stand vigil over the quiet benches.

A circular bench that has seen better days, a hollowed out tree trunk repurposed as a children’s playgound house, picnic benches and, in background, a portion of the Farmer’s Market pavilion, to the right is Johnson Boatyard, Cayuga Inlet and lake. This is the Steamboat Landing, historically the southern port on Cayuga Lake. Cayuga Waterfront Trail, Ithaca, Tompkins County, Finger Lakes Region, New York State.

Switching seasons, we see the docks adorned with festive wreaths, injecting life and celebration into the scenery. The bright red ribbons stand out against the crisp blue of the water and the sky, suggesting a community that embraces tradition and the joy of the moment.

Connection with Nature and Community


The pictures depict how the landing is woven into the natural tapestry of the area. It is a place where one can sit and watch the placid waters of Cayuga Lake or stroll along the docks, feeling the crisp air against their skin. The images of the clear skies, the open waters, and the flight of birds in the distance are a subtle reminder of nature’s continuous presence.

Steamboad Landing on the Cayuga Waterfront Trail, Farmers Market, Ithaca, Finger Lakes Region, New York State

The waterfront trail exemplifies the community’s efforts to merge history with modernity, providing a space where people can connect with the environment and each other. The docks, once a stage for industrial exchange, now serve as a peaceful retreat, hinting at the deep-seated human desire for connection—not only to each other but also to the very essence of the environment we inhabit.

Seasonal Beauty and Reflection


The change in seasons at Steamboat Landing brings a unique beauty, which the photographs showcase poignantly. From the barren coldness of winter to the lush warmth of spring, each season imbues the landing with a distinct character. The winter images reveal a quiet majesty, with the bare branches and gray skies reflecting the introspective nature of the season. The springtime shots, however, burst with promise and vitality, as greenery begins to cloak the landscape and the water shimmers under the strengthening sun.

Enduring Legacy and Future Prospects


Steamboat Landing’s legacy as a historical transport hub has set the stage for its future as a cherished community locale. The images and historical texts paint a picture of a place that has embraced its past while looking forward to a vibrant and inclusive future. It is a locale that pays homage to its roots through the Farmers Market and other community events, ensuring that the spirit of the old steamboats continues to thrive in the hearts of Ithacans.

In conclusion, Steamboat Landing is a geographic location and a chronicle of Ithaca’s journey through time. Through its transformation, it has become a place where history breathes, nature speaks, and the community finds its heartbeat. It stands as a beacon of heritage, recreation, and beauty—a corner of the world where past and present dance together in harmony.

Copyright 2024 Michael Stephen Wills All Rights Reserved

A Shoreline Spectacle: The Power and Grace of Military Aviation

While beachcombing I witnessed an awe-inspiring moment where tranquility meets military prowess.
Discover the captivating blend of nature and technology in my latest post.

MichaelStephenWills4 Comments

As I approached the placid stretch of sand known as Second Beach, adjacent to the Patrick Space Force Base, the Atlantic breeze carried a tang of salt that mixed with the distant, almost imperceptible hum of powerful engines. The sand, still cool beneath my feet, bore the imprints of morning walkers and the scuttle marks of sandpipers. It was a peaceful canvas, soon to be underscored by the might of aviation prowess.

Having walked barely a tenth of a mile along the shoreline, the tranquil horizon was interrupted by the advancing silhouette of the Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules. The Hercules, a titan of the skies, made its approach, its four Rolls-Royce AE 2100D3 turboprop engines altering the cadence of the ocean’s whispers. There’s a unique blend of awe and humility one feels in the presence of such human engineering, a craft capable of touching the farthest reaches of the globe, delivering hope or strategic might with equal prowess.

The Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules is an extensive update of the C-130 Hercules, primarily involving new engines, avionics, and structural improvements. Here’s a more detailed look into the aircraft’s features and capabilities: Engines and Performance: The C-130J is powered by four Rolls-Royce AE 2100D3 turboprop engines, each driving a six-bladed composite propeller. It’s capable of taking off from unprepared runways for expeditions, emergencies, or other complex missions. Avionics and Systems: The flight deck features modern avionics with heads-up displays (HUDs) for each pilot and advanced navigation systems. It is equipped with a digital autopilot, improving performance and reducing crew workload. Capacity and Versatility: The C-130J can carry more than 40,000 pounds of cargo and has a range of about 2,000 nautical miles with a 35,000-pound payload. It can accommodate a wide variety of cargo, including vehicles, pallets, and personnel or airdrop loads. The aircraft is air-refuelable, extending its range for prolonged missions. Design Improvements: Enhanced structural design allowing for a greater lift and having a higher maximum takeoff weight than previous C-130 models. The “J” model incorporates a longer fuselage than the original C-130H. Operational Use: The C-130J is used by the United States Air Force, the Marine Corps, and the Coast Guard, as well as numerous allied nations around the world. Its roles include medevac, airborne assault, search and rescue, scientific research support, weather reconnaissance, aerial refueling, maritime patrol, and aerial firefighting. Upgrade and Maintenance: The C-130J has been continually updated with new technology and systems since its initial deployment to maintain its operational capabilities and extend its service life. A robust maintenance and upgrade program supports global operations in varied and harsh environments, ensuring readiness and reliability. With its combination of speed, range, and airlift

As the Hercules descended, its shadow enveloped my position, transient and thrilling. The aircraft’s formidability was evident in the robust structure and the propellers cutting through the air with surgical precision. The six-bladed composites, in harmonious rotation, seemed like the spokes of some celestial chariot, ushering the giants of the sky onto the earthly stage. Even as it neared the runway, the versatility of the Super Hercules was unmistakable; crafted for austere conditions, yet here it was, gliding over a picturesque landscape, a sentinel on a peaceful mission.

The Hercules passed overhead with a display of grace uncharacteristic of such a large aircraft, the whirring of its engines a testament to the ceaseless vigil it keeps across the skies. As it touched down, the craft transformed from a spectral giant back into a tangible instrument of air superiority and logistical support.

After an interlude of peaceful wave breaks another form caught my eye. The sleek, more modern contours of the Boeing P-8 Poseidon emerged from the azure, its twin engines a whisper of progression against the roar of the Hercules before it. This maritime patrol aircraft, with its lineage traced back to the reliable Boeing 737, represents the evolution of aerial surveillance and anti-submarine warfare.

As the P-8 Poseidon drew closer, descending with an elegant ease, its profile cut a striking contrast against the gray clouds above. Its advanced radar arrays, mounted under the wings and fuselage, hinted at the craft’s hidden eyes—eyes that watch over the ocean’s expanse with vigilance. There was an undeniable presence of precision and technological advancement that surrounded the Poseidon as it sailed through the air.

The Boeing P-8 Poseidon is a highly advanced, long-range, anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASuW), and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) aircraft. It’s a military derivative of the Boeing 737 Next-Generation airplane and is used primarily by the U.S. Navy. Key features and capabilities include: Advanced Sensors: The P-8 is equipped with a state-of-the-art sensor suite that allows it to track both surface ships and submarines. The aircraft carries a maritime radar, a high-definition electro-optic/infrared (EO/IR) camera, and an advanced magnetic anomaly detector (MAD) for submarine hunting. Communication and Combat Systems: It features a secure and interoperable communication system that enables real-time data-sharing with other assets in the battle space. The P-8 has an advanced mission control system that helps gather and process surveillance data. Armament: The P-8 can carry torpedoes, Harpoon anti-ship missiles, and other weapons. It has both internal and wing-mounted hardpoints for weapons storage and delivery. Operational Range: The aircraft has an extended operational range, capable of long-duration missions and covering vast areas of ocean on a single sortie. Survivability: Being a modern military aircraft, the P-8 includes defensive systems to protect against surface-to-air threats. Versatility: While primarily designed for maritime patrol, the P-8 also supports a wide range of missions, including search and rescue, shipping protection, and electronic intelligence gathering.

It passed over with a smoothness that belied its tactical purpose, a guardian of the seas ensuring the unseen threats remained held at bay. It was an ethereal sight, the embodiment of modern warfare’s stealth and strategic intelligence. The Poseidon’s landing gear, deployed and ready, connected with the tarmac in a seamless dance of man, machine, and purpose.

Standing there, I felt enveloped in a narrative much larger than myself—a narrative of human ingenuity, the relentless pursuit of security, and the silent promise of guardianship from above. With the passing of these large warplanes, I was reminded of the thin line between serene shores and the turbulent skies, and the ever-vigilant watch kept by these titans of the sky.

Copyright 2024 Michael Stephen Wills All Rights Reserved

Behind the Scenes of the Final Frontier: Our Tour with NASA’s “Launch Director” – 6

Step behind the scenes of space exploration with this dive into the awe-inspiring details of the Space Shuttle Atlantis, its thermal-protected wings to the onboard engines.

MichaelStephenWills10 Comments

Imagine, if you will, stepping onto the grounds of NASA, where the air buzzes with the legacy of space exploration and the spirit of human achievement. It’s a place where dreams of the cosmos turn into reality. Our 2017 Launch Director tour not only brought us face-to-face with the marvels of space travel but allowed me to delve into the intricate details of one of NASA’s most iconic spacecraft: the Space Shuttle Atlantis. In this episode 6 of our adventure, we continue exploring the engineering marvel that is Atlantis, focusing on its wings, rear stabilizer, and onboard engines—elements critical to its legendary missions.

Atlantis delta shaped wings

The Space Shuttle Atlantis, a name synonymous with discovery and exploration, represents a pinnacle of human ingenuity. As you walk around the Atlantis exhibit, you can’t help but be awed by the shuttle’s design, particularly its wings. The wings of Atlantis, with a wingspan of about 78 feet, are not just structures of metal and composite materials; they are the shuttle’s lifeline during re-entry into Earth’s atmosphere. These delta-shaped wings are designed to withstand the scorching temperatures of re-entry, allowing Atlantis to glide back to Earth with grace and precision. The material covering the wings, known as the Thermal Protection System (TPS), consists of thousands of heat-resistant tiles and reinforced carbon-carbon panels, safeguarding the shuttle and its crew from temperatures exceeding 1,650 degrees Celsius.

Atlantis Stabilizer

As your gaze shifts towards the rear of Atlantis, the vertical tail fin, or the rear stabilizer, commands attention. Standing about 17 feet tall, this stabilizer is more than just a rudder; it’s a critical component for maintaining the shuttle’s stability during the different phases of its mission. During the launch, it helps keep the shuttle on course as it ascends through the atmosphere. In space, it plays a minimal role, but upon re-entry, it becomes vital again, ensuring the shuttle remains stable and oriented correctly as it descends through the atmosphere, allowing for a safe landing.

Atlantis Onboard Engines

In this exploration of Atlantis, after the wings and stabilizer, we encounter the heart of the shuttle’s propulsion system: its onboard engines. The Space Shuttle Main Engines (SSMEs), three in total, are marvels of engineering, capable of producing a combined thrust of over 1.2 million pounds. These liquid-fueled engines play a crucial role in propelling the shuttle from the launch pad into orbit. What’s fascinating is their ability to throttle up or down depending on the phase of the launch, providing the precise amount of power needed at any given moment. The engines are fed by the External Tank, the only part of the shuttle not reused, which carries the liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen needed for combustion. Upon reaching orbit, the Orbital Maneuvering System (OMS) engines take over, allowing Atlantis to navigate the vacuum of space with finesse, adjusting its orbit and facilitating the meticulous maneuvers required for satellite deployment or docking with the International Space Station.

Walking away from the Atlantis exhibit, what stays with you is not just the sight of this magnificent spacecraft but an appreciation for the ingenuity and dedication that went into its design. Every wing, every tile on the stabilizer, and every roar from the engines tell a story of human curiosity, the drive to explore beyond our confines, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. The Space Shuttle Atlantis is more than a machine; it’s a symbol of what humanity can achieve when we dare to dream big and work tirelessly towards those dreams. So, as you look up at the night sky, remember the wings that carried our dreams, the stabilizer that kept us on course, and the engines that propelled us into the unknown, reminding us that the final frontier is not so final after all.

Copyright 2024 Michael Stephen Wills All Rights Reserved

Long Ride

An expert surfer takes a wave

MichaelStephenWills12 Comments

An expert surfer takes a wave near Jetty Pier Park, Cape Canaveral, Florida. Taken with an Apple IPhone 8.

Click video to start. To do this from WordPress Reader, you need to first click the title of this post to open a new page.

Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved Michael Stephen Wills

Nature’s First Green….

…is gold, / her hardest hue to hold, / her early leaf’s a flower; / but only so an hour… Robert Frost

MichaelStephenWills4 Comments

You walk alone by the waters of Cayuga Lake in Stewart Park, nestled in the heart of Ithaca’s Finger Lakes, where Salix alba, the white willow, stands proudly along the shoreline. You’re immediately drawn to the flurry of yellow flowers, a stark contrast to the still chilly early March air.

The white willow (Salix alba), with its rough, gray bark, is beginning to dress in its spring finery, its branches teeming with tiny, starburst-like flowers. Each one is a miniature sun, casting a glow against the intricate lattice of branches. These aren’t the soft catkins of the pussy willow but the yellow inflorescences that are characteristic of the white willow’s early bloom, a signpost that winter’s grip is loosening.

These trees, you learn, are dioecious, with separate male and female trees. The blossoms you see are likely the male flowers, their stamens dusting your fingers with pollen as you brush against them. It’s this pollen that will soon beckon the bees, urging them to emerge from their hives and begin the work that sustains the ecosystem. You can almost hear the faint buzz, a prelude to the symphony of life that summer will bring. Return in midsummer to find the female catkins comprise numerous small (4 mm) capsules, each containing numerous minute seeds embedded in silky white hairs, which aids wind dispersal.

As you wander further, you note the presence of the white willow’s kin, other deciduous companions some still bare and stretching into the sky and others leafing out. You stand there, at the cusp of seasonal change, where the slumbering trees are on the verge of awakening, and you feel a kinship with them. Like these trees, you have weathered the cold, dark months, and now you stand poised to greet the renewal that comes with spring.

The stark, knotted forms of the white willow branches against the clear sky speak to you of endurance and resilience. These trees have weathered storms and droughts; they have been companions to the lake, mirrors to its moods, and now they are beginning to celebrate the cycle of rebirth and growth.

You take a seat on a bench, the cool wood through your clothes a reminder of the lingering winter. You gaze out across the lake, the water reflecting the brilliance of the sun like a vast, rippling mirror, framed by the elegant silhouettes of the white willows. You feel the peace of the park seep into you, the slow, rhythmic lapping of the water syncing with your breath.

This is a moment of transition, from the sleeping to the awakening world. You think about the Salix alba, how its presence here is a testament to nature’s adaptability, thriving in the moist soil by the lake, offering shade in summer and shelter in winter, its branches a playground for the winds.

As you leave Stewart Park, you take with you the memory of the white willows in early March, the quiet guardians of Cayuga Lake. They remind you of the enduring beauty of nature, the seamless flow from one season to the next, and the quiet joy of standing witness to the first whispers of spring on the shores of the Finger Lakes.

Copyright 2024 Michael Stephen Wills All Rights Reserved

Rough Surf

beyond belief

MichaelStephenWills12 Comments

Waves built from onshore wind, fast, steady overnight, through the day from early morning until sunset. Pam and I adapted with a revisit to the Sands Space History Museum, Cape Canaveral just outside the Air Force Station. Click this link for a previous posting, “Cape Canaveral Lighthouse,” first of a series. This post header is a vintage gumball machine from the lobby.

By sunset the waves were roaring. Viewing from the safe distance of our condo porch we spied two surfers incredibly among the waves, taking rides. Waiting and attempting a ride. You can see for yourselves the two tiny dots of humanity, appearing and hidden among the waves. I spot them first and Pam does not believe me, I do not blame her. It is beyond my comprehension people are out there. I cannot recommend the quality of the video from my IPhone, our comments are humorous.

It is difficult, Pam is astounded when they come into view.

He rises briefly only to wipe out in this brief video.

One surfer emerges as his partner persists.

Click this link to visit “Cocoa Beach Kite Skating” on my blog.

Copyright 2024 All Right Reserved Michael Stephen Wills Photography

Pelicans Skimming Waves

Wave Play

MichaelStephenWills11 Comments

Brown Pelicans (Pelecanus occidentalis) fly as linear flocks of a few individuals, at altitude over the shore, and low over the surf line as seen here. Taken January 27, 2020 with the IPhone 8, there is a the insertion of the modern world as a cruise ship comes into view. The ship departs Cape Canaveral Cruise port for parts unknown.

Pelicans, when skimming the waves solo, fly even closer, and do wipe-out when a wingtip hits the water. This bird successfully negotiates a path through the surf.

Click this link to visit “Queen Victoria Arrival” on my blog.

Copyright 2024 All Right Reserved Michael Stephen Wills Photography

Passing…..

…remembering our time on the cusp of the pandemic

MichaelStephenWills23 Comments

After 2 pm check in we interrupted unpacking for a sundown beach walk, IPhones and Sony Alpha 700 camera in hand on the last evening of 2019. There is a business on A1A, the main road through town, advertising “beach weddings” and “elopements.” Here, using the 18 – 200 mm f3.5-6.2 lens, I spied this grouping of a mature couple holding hands, minister in attendance, for a wedding ceremony witnessed by young adult children on the right, parents (?) left. The groom’s shorts contrast with the bride’s white gown.

Sunlight, low in the western sky, was perfect for mirror-like reflections in the retreating surf.

A given of the Atlantic beach is the late afternoon light, best for capturing figures against the ocean.

Written below the high tide mark, a message inscribed, impermanent in spite of the deep cuts.

I have practice framing sunsets against beach development. Cannot complain as we enjoy our beach side condo.

A slide show of these images.

Mature Love / Beach Vows
Cruise Ships Depart Cape Canaveral Late Afternoon
To Each His Own Passion
Surf Casting
Black Skimmer Going His Own Way
Gull Reflection
Last Sunset of 2019
Messages in the Sand Washed Away Twice Daily at High Tide

Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved Michael Stephen Wills

Dueling Songbirds

Witness a duel not of might, but of vibrant melodies between the cardinal and song sparrow. This 14-second video captures a fleeting yet profound moment in the Finger Lakes’ springtime chorus. Join us in unraveling the significance behind this avian serenade.

MichaelStephenWills11 Comments

In the serene backdrop of the Finger Lakes in upstate New York, an enchanting encounter unfolds as the first whispers of spring touch the air. It’s March 14th, a day that marks the gentle shift from the silent, introspective winter to the lively, expressive season of spring. On this day, a captivating spectacle takes place — a duel not of might, but of melody. Two distinguished songbirds, a male cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) with its vibrant red plumage that seems to capture the very essence of life itself, and a male song sparrow (Melospiza melodia), modest in color yet profound in voice, engage in an early springtime symphony.

This 14-second video, garnished with brevity, captures a fleeting moment in nature’s grand concert, where these feathered musicians compete, not for supremacy, but for the sheer joy of song and the chance to herald the new season. The cardinal, with its rich, whistling tunes, fills the air with a repertoire of songs that resonate with the promise of new beginnings. Meanwhile, the song sparrow, with its intricate melodies that vary dramatically from bird to bird, offers a counterpoint that is both complex and captivating.

This auditory duel, set against the tranquil beauty of the Finger Lakes, is more than just a display of vocal prowess. It’s a ritual that speaks to the heart of nature’s cycle, a testament to the resilience and adaptability of these species. As these songbirds vie for the attention of mates and assert their presence in the spring landscape, they also remind us of the enduring beauty and mystery of the natural world. You’ll also catch the call of a crow and, in the distance, another Cardinal.

This moment, brief yet infinitely rich, invites us to pause and listen, to lose ourselves in the simple yet profound joy of birdsong. It’s a reminder that, even in the quietest corners of the world, life thrums with vibrancy and the promise of renewal. Join us as we delve into the story behind this melodic encounter, exploring the significance of song in the lives of these birds and the heralding of spring in the Finger Lakes.

Copyright 2024 Michael Stephen Wills All Rights Reserved