Astronomy

Experience the Northern Lights from an aerial perspective.

January, 09, 2025-05:05

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Experience the Northern Lights from an aerial perspective

Observing the shimmering brilliance of the Northern Lights is among the most remarkable experiences on Earth. Recently, a NASA astronaut has provided insight into the view of this magnificent natural phenomenon from above. Astronaut Don Pettit has shared his aerial perspective of the Northern Lights as seen from the International Space Station. In a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, Mr. Pettit succinctly remarked: "Flying over aurora; intensely green." This captivating video showcases the lower structures of the space station set against the vibrant green illumination of the aurora.

The Northern Lights occur at altitudes ranging from 60 to 186 miles (100 to 300 km) above the Earth's surface, while the ISS operates at nearly four times that height. On social media, enthusiasts of space exploration have expressed their astonishment at the unique vantage point astronauts possess. One astonished user commented: "Wait wait... auroras are that low?!" Commenters on social media expressed their astonishment upon discovering that astronauts possess a distinctive viewpoint regarding one of Earth's natural phenomena.

Don Pettit, aged 69, holds the title of NASA's oldest astronaut and is part of the Expedition 72 crew, which also includes the stranded astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Willmore. Currently engaged in his third mission aboard the International Space Station, Mr. Pettit is renowned for his exceptional skills in orbital photography. Having spent over 300 days in space, Mr. Pettit has earned recognition as one of NASA's premier photographers, capturing breathtaking images of Earth and the Northern Lights.

The Northern and Southern Lights occur when charged particles emitted by the sun interact with Earth's atmosphere. As these particles enter the atmosphere, they collide with gas particles, imparting enough energy to cause them to emit a bright glow. These phenomena are observable from the ISS, as the auroras form in a relatively low region of the atmosphere. The lowest glowing gases are generally located 80 miles (130 km) above the surface but can occasionally descend to as low as 60 miles (100 km). Orbiting at altitudes between 230 to 285 miles (370 to 460 km), the ISS safely traverses above the auroras, enabling astronauts on board to witness this spectacular display from above.