Looking directly above, you get less light pollution, but the lack of a reference point (like the trees in the previous shot), perhaps diminishes the impact. Although I describe the specks as "stars" they may be galaxies, in which case, one can begin to appreciate the incredible scale of the Universe. Some spiral galaxies, which appear as tiny specks to us (even with telescopic images) are known to be at least 55,000 light years across. Since light travels at 186,000 miles per second, it can go a long way in 55,000 years, so those galaxies are of truly awesome scale. When one thinks of both the macro aspects of the Universe and the micro aspects of atomic physics, including our own biology, it is evident how utterly amazing our environment (and we) are. It is also interesting how astonishing the reality of the Universe is in relation to the crude mytholigising mankind has hitherto indulged in over the centuries. I am hopeful that we really are in an age of enlightenment, when we can finally lay to rest most, if not all, of those myths which are based on fear, ignorance and superstition.