So a very cold night was spent up at the Tre Cime after a nice 2 hour uphill skin from Misurina. It turns out if you leave the shutter open too long in -18 it freezes open, something to remember for the future. I then spent the next 40 minutes lying in the snow to protect the camera from strong winds. The Auronzo hut emergency winter room provided a comfy finish to the evening.
For a slightly higher res version see: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10101040194159973&set=a.10100482383841323.1073741827.61207635&type=1&theater

I almost like this........in a purely geometrical way ;-)

This cries out for portrait format James so we have both more stars and mountain. Otherwise breathtaking image!

Nice shot, you would think Nikon would use a lubricant that didn't freeze at minus 18 though it might have been condensation inside the camera.
I set a wee tarp up recently to protect the camera from wind shake while doing a timelapse it worked but had to set up as close the ground as possible which was awkward but beats lying on the ground to protect it.

Thanks guys. Robert I have to confess I cringed inwardly when I read the email stating you'd commented knowing your opinion on startrails - thanks for the reserved critique ;)
Sean - I couldn't decide which orientation to go with, I planned on doing both, but got a bit cold, something to return for!
Garb - I considered creating a mini windbreak with my ski poles and coat, just couldn't bring myself to remove a layer! Will take an extra one nextime.

Had a look about the web Adorama had an article on tips for using cameras in the cold, using a handwarmer wrapped around the camera was one, might be best used with a neoprene bag as well to keep the wind off, I haven't used hand warmers so not sure how warm they get so don't blame me if it damages someone camera.
Condensation appears to be a major problem. for cameras in a cold environment and battery problems.

Great shot James. I suspect Sean means you need a bit more of the mountain at the bottom, the landscape format looks excellent to me.