I just started to eat my breakfast - homemade fancy bread with hot tea. And this particular piece just fits the mood. Epicness, snow, adventure. As if I'm just a small boy again nad watch my favourite comic series.
I divide space art pieces (those really good and strong) into two groups (you might agree or not - it's just my way of seeing things) - those that tell the story and those that invoke emotions. Some do both but this one fits into the first category.
I remember faving this piece and even reading the older critique - there were some parts I agreed with but let's put some more text on the page to cover this depiction.
Strongest part is definitely the depth - massive and majestic world floating above the surface is the first thing that catches my eye but as I aim my sight more closely to the picture I'm realizing it's just the background for the small adventure taking place on one of the moons. The whole scene (well - almost - I'll explain later) covered in volumes of falling snow hurled by strong winds. These snow layers are perfectly supporting the depth and even helping to hide small glitches here and there that would normally be more obvious.
It's really a joy to see all these elements work together - yes, the lighting IS a bit different in the space and on the ground and yes - those ships are cheesy but they just ARE there, the whole scene lives. Realistic colors only finish this complete impression.
Technically there is no big flaw. The only problem I have with the piece is made by that tree in front of the scene. It is the only object that is practically omitted by the falling snow (yes - it is covered by snow but it just doesn't feel like it belongs to the picture). Thus lowering the overall impression a bit.
To finish it - the power of this piece is not in originality or some mind-blowing FXs but in the story and endeavor put in it - every part (aside from the tree ) just fits into it - and in that classic atmosphere that will somehow always be that important element separating good pieces from the rest.

My breakfast is over, there is nothing left to say...