ISS astronaut captures night-time view of Southern Europe from space

Radiant Night-Time View of Southern Europe from Space (Image: JAXA/Kimiya Yui⁣)

A Japanese astronaut has captured an extraordinary view of Europe at night. Kimiya Yui photographed southern Europe during an ISS orbit above Earth. The image shows a dark planet edged by a glowing green atmosphere. City lights create a striking pattern across the visible land.

At left the Po Valley region stands out brilliantly. Milan and Turin appear as clusters of intense light. Their suburbs spread outward forming a vibrant urban corridor. The rest of the visible land appears more dimly lit.

Crew members document Earth’s changes through continuous photography. They record coastlines forests and urban sprawl evolving over time. Images help officials monitor disasters and coordinate emergency responses quickly. Scientists also study atmospheric conditions using night-time photos like this.

The view reminds that Earth is both fragile and active. Human settlements sparkle against deep space revealing life’s presence below. A small portion of the station is visible at the frame’s edge. It symbolises humanity watching its own world from above.

Astronaut photographs offer evidence of our changing planet over years. They support climate research and reveal shifts in coastlines quickly. Disaster managers use images to track floods wildfire impacts and storms.

Scientists measure light pollution growth through expanding urban night glows. The photos highlight fragile ecosystems and vanishing natural landscapes daily. They also remind humanity of Earth’s beauty and shared responsibility.