NASA astronaut captures most stunning view of Milky Way on Earth's horizon from space

Milky Way on the Horizon. (Image: NASA/Don Pettit)

Looking at the night sky is always mesmerising, but seeing it from space is truly special. NASA astronaut Don Pettit recently captured a breathtaking image of the Milky Way from the International Space Station, offering a rare view of our galaxy from orbit.

A Glimpse Beyond Earth’s Horizon
Using a camera with low-light and long-exposure settings, Pettit took the image on 29 January 2025. The photograph shows the Milky Way glowing beyond Earth’s horizon just before sunrise. At the time, the space station was flying 265 miles above the Pacific Ocean near Chile’s coast.

Milky Way on the Horizon. (Image: NASA/Don Pettit)

Science Aboard the Space Station
Pettit is part of the Expedition 72 crew, which includes NASA astronauts Suni Williams, Butch Wilmore, and Nick Hague. They are conducting various experiments to benefit life on Earth and in space. Their research includes pharmaceutical manufacturing, genetic sequencing in microgravity, and advanced life support systems.

From capturing stunning cosmic views to advancing scientific discoveries, the crew continues to push the limits of space exploration.