Imagine dedicating nearly two years to capturing a single photograph—a recreation of one of cinema’s most iconic scenes. That’s exactly what photographer Michael Meighan and his friend Nathan Edwards did, and the result has left them over the Moon—literally. But here’s where it gets even more fascinating: their journey wasn’t just about snapping a picture; it was a test of patience, precision, and pure passion. And this is the part most people miss: the incredible amount of planning and perseverance it took to recreate that magical moment from E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982), where Elliott’s BMX bike, with E.T. in the basket, soars past the Moon.
The duo’s mission began in 2024, with countless attempts to align the stars—or rather, the Moon—with their vision. Using a phone app to pinpoint the exact location and timing, they scouted various spots before settling on Eglwysilan Mountain in Rhondda Cynon Taf. The plan? Edwards would push his bike uphill, carefully positioning a plastic washbowl with a teddy bear wrapped in a blanket to mimic E.T., while Meighan waited 1.4 miles away in Treforest, Pontypridd, ready to capture the shot through his camera lens. But here’s the controversial part: some might question whether such an elaborate effort is worth it for a single photo. Is it art, obsession, or something in between? Let’s just say, the debate is as lively as the curiosity it sparked among local residents, who peeked out of their homes to see a man with a massive camera lens lurking on their street.
The breakthrough finally came during last weekend’s first full Moon of the year. With perfect weather conditions, Edwards huffed and puffed his way up the hill, while Meighan framed the shot, their phones buzzing with updates. When the moment arrived, it was nothing short of magical. “We were over the Moon to finally get this one,” Meighan said, pun fully intended. But it wasn’t just luck—it was the result of meticulous planning and 12 failed attempts over the years, each thwarted by weather or misaligned lunar positions.
Here’s the kicker: while the execution seemed straightforward, the planning was the real challenge. From scouting locations to calculating the Moon’s trajectory, every detail had to be perfect. And when it all came together, the pair celebrated with a “huge embrace” and a well-deserved pint at a nearby pub. Meighan credited Edwards’s unwavering commitment, calling him “a fantastic person and friend” without whom the project would have been impossible. “His enthusiasm and dedication to grab the bike, drive to a random location, and do it all for the sake of this image—it’s just brilliant,” he added.
This story isn’t just about a photograph; it’s a testament to the power of creativity, friendship, and the lengths we’ll go to turn a vision into reality. But here’s the question for you: Is this kind of dedication inspiring, or does it cross the line into obsession? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your take on this labor of love!
