An astronaut aboard the International Space Station (ISS) has recorded a breathtaking timelapse video, showcasing rare celestial events and the station’s unique vantage point in low Earth orbit. The footage, captured by Japanese astronaut Kimiya Yui, features the zodiacal light, auroras, and the Pleiades star cluster in a mesmerizing display.
Zodiacal Light and Auroral Displays
The video opens with a striking view of the zodiacal light, a faint, ethereal glow caused by sunlight reflecting off interplanetary dust particles. This phenomenon creates a column of light rising above Earth, visible only from dark locations with clear skies. As the zodiacal light fades, the video transitions to shimmering green auroras dancing in Earth’s upper atmosphere. These auroral displays rotate into view alongside the ISS’s solar panels, which track the sun as the station orbits the planet.
Stellar Constellations and the Pleiades Cluster
The timelapse also captures the rotation of stars in constellations such as Pegasus, Andromeda, and Ares, offering a unique perspective on their movements relative to the ISS. Keen observers will notice the seven brightest stars of the Pleiades open star cluster (also known as the Seven Sisters) appearing in the upper left of the frame before descending toward the station.
Context and Astronaut’s Mission
Yui’s footage was shared on social media alongside a message expressing gratitude for his extended time in space. His second tour aboard the ISS for the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) has been cut short due to a medical issue affecting another astronaut who launched with him on SpaceX’s Crew-11 mission. The details of the medical condition remain undisclosed, but the mission’s premature end highlights the inherent risks and challenges of long-duration spaceflight.
Viewing Space from Orbit
For those curious about the ISS, live orbital views of Earth are available through Space.com’s streaming SEN cameras, mounted on the station’s exterior. Additionally, LEGO offers an official ISS kit for enthusiasts who wish to bring a piece of space exploration into their homes.
The video serves as a stunning reminder of the beauty and wonder of space, as well as the dedication of astronauts who push the boundaries of human exploration.
