Witnessing the Breathtaking Beauty of Auroras from the International Space Station
When they’re not working on scientific research, astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS) like to spend time peering out of the windows to marvel at an astonishing view that never gets old. The ISS orbits Earth at around 250 miles up and at a speed of around 17,000 mph, allowing those aboard to experience 16 sunsets and sunrises a day. In certain conditions, they can also enjoy spectacular aurora light shows, caused by particles from the sun interacting with Earth’s magnetic field.
Auroras: A Spectacle from Space and Earth
From Earth, auroras — also known as the northern or southern lights according to the hemisphere in which they occur — appear as colorful lights dancing in the sky near the poles. Astronauts on the space station, meanwhile, witness glowing ribbons of light over the Earth’s curved horizon, against the dramatic backdrop of space. NASA astronaut Zena Cardman, who arrived at the orbital outpost in August for a six-month stay, has just shared a stunning piece of footage showing a recent aurora over parts of North America.
“I’ve still never seen aurora from below, but up here, it’s a frequent show,” Cardman wrote in a post on X. “Last week’s was especially good. See if you can spot Houston, Florida, and the northern lights all in one frame, before we head out across the Gulf and some great lightning storms over South America at sunrise.” Recent ISS visitor Anne McClain offered her own take on the phenomenon, noting that “Auroras from space always draw crewmembers to the Cupola,” referring to the seven-window module that offers the best views from the ISS.
The Science Behind Auroras and Their Impact
While the sun’s incoming particles can create this gorgeous spectacle, large solar storms can also have the effect of disrupting satellite operations and even Earth’s power grids. In fact, earlier this month, extreme solar activity caused some problems for GPS and radio communications on Earth, though fortunately nothing serious happened. And yes, it produced some impressive auroras, too. The interaction between the sun’s particles and Earth’s magnetic field is a complex phenomenon that continues to fascinate scientists and astronauts alike.
For those interested in learning more about the breathtaking views from the ISS and the science behind auroras, there are numerous resources available. From NASA’s official website to educational institutions and research centers, there is a wealth of information waiting to be explored. Whether you’re an astronomy enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of our planet, the views from the ISS are sure to leave you in awe.
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