Yes, that looks good! :-)

I never use shadows so low. All kinds of strange results can happen. You just proved that. :-)
If the clouds shadow is too dark, you could play with the cloud materials, make it more transparent (play with filters, for example). In principle, problems should be solved at their root cause. :-) So, if the problem was with the clouds, change the clouds material. :-)

I agree that the water needs a bit more highlight.

Quote - "remember, most cameras cna't pick up the fiant light our eyes can."

Silverblade, have you been in space already and have you seen it with your own eyes?! :-)
I admit I've only seen atmospheres from outer space and objects in deep space, in images captured by cameras. :-) For all of us, this is the reality. IMO, it's completely irrelevant if cameras can pick more or less than eyes can, in what concerns trying to make realistic space scenes. From this point of view, atmospheres in the dark don't glow and stars do not cast enough light to make shadows any brighter than deep black. :-)