Stunning Earth Day time-lapse captures aurora glow

By Trevor Mogg Published April 22, 2025

NASA astronaut Nichole Ayers has shared a mesmerizing view of an aurora on Earth Day.

Ayers, who arrived at the International Space Station (ISS) on her first orbital mission last month, posted the time-lapse on X. It also includes the silhouette of a Russian Soyuz spacecraft that’s currently docked at the ISS.

Testing out what I learned from @astro_Pettit. It’s all about planning and timing to get good photos. Tried my hand at a few aurora time-lapses, and they aren’t too bad! Working on exposures still but happy with the first attempt. We have the most amazing view, and I hope to… pic.twitter.com/eM5NfGOjyQ

Auroras are natural light displays that occur when charged particles from the sun interact with Earth’s magnetic field and atmosphere. People back on the ground near the polar regions can enjoy the phenomenon, while astronauts also get an extraordinary view from 250 miles up.

“Testing out what I learned from [Don Pettit],” Ayers said in a hat tip to the ace photographer and NASA astronaut who returned to Earth just a few days ago following a seven-month stay in orbit.

“It’s all about planning and timing to get good photos,” Ayers wrote. “Tried my hand at a few aurora time-lapses, and they aren’t too bad! Working on exposures still but happy with the first attempt.”

Finally, in a note that suggested Ayers will be posting more stunning shots during her time in orbit, the astronaut added: “We have the most amazing view, and I hope to share it with you!”

Astronauts often mention aurora when talking about their most memorable experiences while living and working aboard the space station. NASA astronaut Jasmin Moghbeli, who was in orbit last year, conveyed her joy at witnessing the phenomenon, saying: “The auroras from up here are spectacular … I love it because every time I look out the window, I’m in awe. Every single time I’m amazed at how alive and beautiful our planet is.”

Ayers’ post was the perfect way for the ISS to mark Earth Day, an annual event that aims to raise awareness about environmental issues and demonstrate support for environmental protection.