Astronauts’ Views from the ISS: A Glimpse into Space’s Natural Wonders
When they’re not immersed in scientific research aboard the International Space Station (ISS), astronauts take time to enjoy breathtaking views that are unlike anything on Earth. Peering out of the windows, they are treated to a spectacle that never fails to amaze.
The Thrill of Orbiting Earth
Positioned approximately 250 miles above the Earth’s surface and traveling at speeds around 17,000 mph, astronauts aboard the ISS witness a rotating panorama of our planet. They experience 16 sunrises and sunsets daily, a remarkable frequency that allows them to appreciate the shifting light and colors of Earth.
Under certain conditions, the ISS crew is also fortunate enough to observe vivid auroras, phenomena produced when solar particles interact with the Earth’s magnetic field. From space, these auroras appear as radiant ribbons of color over the curved horizon of our planet, creating a stunning juxtaposition against the inky backdrop of the cosmos.
A Stunning Display of Nature
NASA astronaut Zena Cardman, who began her six-month mission at the ISS in August, recently shared mesmerizing footage showcasing an aurora stretching across parts of North America. In her post on X, she expressed her excitement, writing, “I’ve still never seen aurora from below, but up here, it’s a frequent show. 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.”
I’ve still never seen aurora from below, but up here, it’s a frequent show. 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… pic.twitter.com/THqX83wNXL
— Zena Cardman (@zenanaut) November 17, 2025
The Cupola: A Window to the Universe
Another recent ISS visitor, Anne McClain, also shared her enthusiasm regarding the auroras. “Auroras from space always draw crewmembers to the Cupola,” the NASA astronaut noted, referring to the seven-window observatory module that provides the best views from the ISS. She described the fascinating way the aurora appears to creep across the atmosphere as it approaches the horizon.
Solar Activity and Its Effects
While the sun’s particles create these stunning light displays, significant solar storms can disrupt various technologies on Earth, including satellite operations and power grids. Earlier this month, intense solar activity caused minor disruptions in GPS and radio communications, although nothing critical occurred. These solar events also led to the production of particularly striking auroras.
For astronauts aboard the ISS, these natural light shows are more than just visual delights; they offer a glimpse into the interconnectedness of space weather and its effects on Earth. As they capture these moments, they contribute to our understanding of both space and terrestrial phenomena.
To see more about Zena Cardman’s breathtaking footage of the auroras, you can find more details here.
Image Credit: www.digitaltrends.com
