International Space Station captures Earth via moonlight and airglow

Astronaut Jessica Meir has captured new footage and imagery of Earth from the International Space Station (ISS), highlighting various atmospheric and nocturnal phenomena.

One recording showcases the effect of ‘moonglow,’ where moonlight illuminates the Earth to the extent that oceans and continental outlines appear visible, similar to daytime. The footage also captures layers of airglow—a phenomenon where atoms and molecules in the upper atmosphere emit light after being excited by solar radiation.

Additional imagery taken from the station, orbiting at approximately 417 kilometers, provides a view of the night sky over the United States. This perspective includes city lights, specifically featuring New York in the foreground, captured during the transition toward sunrise.

The ISS continues to be operated through an international partnership involving NASA, Roscosmos, the European Space Agency, JAXA, and CSA.