What's Happening?
NASA astronaut Zena Cardman has filmed the Northern Lights, also known as the aurora borealis, from the International Space Station. The footage was captured on November 17, showcasing the vibrant glow of the auroras from above. Cardman, who is serving
as the commander for NASA's SpaceX Crew-11 mission, shared her experience of witnessing the auroras frequently from space, despite never having seen them from below. The Crew-11 mission launched on August 1, and Cardman has encouraged viewers to spot Houston and Florida in the footage.
Why It's Important?
The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon that occurs when charged particles from the sun interact with the Earth's magnetic field, creating stunning visual displays. Capturing these lights from space provides a unique perspective and contributes to the understanding of atmospheric science. This footage not only highlights the beauty of the auroras but also underscores the capabilities of space missions in observing and documenting Earth's natural phenomena. Such observations can enhance scientific research and public interest in space exploration.
