NASA astronaut aboard ISS shares timelapse of the Moon setting behind Earth amidst colourful auroras, watch video here

moon setting into streams of red and green aurora followed by a sunrise lighting up Soyuz with a light blue (Image: (Image: X/@dominickmatthew)

NASA astronaut Matthew Dominick has shared an awe-inspiring timelapse video from the International Space Station (ISS). This stunning footage captures the moon setting against a canvas of vibrant red and green auroras, creating a celestial spectacle that has mesmerised viewers around the world.

The video doesn't just showcase the auroras; it also features a beautiful sunrise casting a light blue glow on the Soyuz spacecraft. Dominick, who recently received a new lens on the Cygnus cargo spacecraft, took the perfect opportunity to test it amidst the dazzling display of nature's lights. The recent geomagnetic storms, triggered by a series of solar eruptions, have intensified the auroras, bringing a rare and vivid display of the northern and southern lights to regions far from their usual confines.

Timelapse of the moon setting into streams of red and green aurora followed by a sunrise lighting up Soyuz with a light blue.

The aurora have been amazing the past few days. Great timing for trying out a new lens that recently arrived on Cygnus. 15mm, T1.8, 1/3s exposure,… pic.twitter.com/otFv5pZ6vd — Matthew Dominick (@dominickmatthew) August 12, 2024

These extraordinary auroras are the result of charged particles from the sun interacting with Earth's atmosphere, creating a visual feast of colours in the night sky. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), these geomagnetic storms are expected to persist, providing even more chances for skywatchers to enjoy this celestial show.

Dominick's video not only captures the beauty of these natural phenomena but also highlights the dynamic nature of space weather. The increased solar activity, marked by heightened solar flares and coronal mass ejections, has implications beyond the stunning visuals. Such events can disrupt power grids and satellite communications but also offer a unique opportunity to view auroras in unexpected places.

The ISS, orbiting Earth at about 420 kilometres above our planet, offers a unique perspective for observing these events. The astronauts aboard frequently capture and share images and videos that reveal the beauty and complexity of space and our planet. As solar activity continues to rise, scientists and enthusiasts are eagerly watching the skies, anticipating more moments of cosmic wonder to be shared and celebrated.

Through Dominick’s captivating footage, we’re reminded of the stunning and ever-changing beauty of our universe, and the thrilling possibilities that lie in observing it from the vantage point of space.