NASA astronaut Matthew Dominick recently captured a mesmerizing image of a Russian Soyuz spacecraft set against the vibrant backdrop of a green aurora, all seen from the vantage point of the International Space Station (ISS). The photograph was taken during Expedition 71 in 2024, as the ISS orbited Earth. Dominick shared this stunning image on X, highlighting how the aurora appeared closer than usual due to heightened solar activity. The photograph showcases the Soyuz spacecraft bathed in sunlight just beginning to rise behind the camera, creating a striking visual contrast with the soft glow of the aurora in the background.
The green aurora seen in the photograph results from charged solar particles interacting with Earth’s atmosphere, where they excite oxygen molecules, producing the characteristic green light often seen in auroras. To capture this delicate interplay of light, Dominick used precise camera settings—1/4s exposure, f1.4 aperture, 50mm lens, and ISO 6400—carefully composing the shot to highlight the Soyuz without overpowering the subtle auroral glow.
Dominick, a member of SpaceX’s Crew-8 mission that docked with the ISS in March 2024, has garnered attention for his photography during his six-month stay aboard the space station. Over this period, he has captured approximately 200,000 photographs, documenting a wide array of subjects from spacecraft docked at the ISS to awe-inspiring natural phenomena like meteors and auroras. These images not only serve important scientific purposes, such as Earth observation and assisting with ISS maintenance, but also offer the public a rare glimpse into the extraordinary sights experienced by astronauts in space.
Dominick’s dedication to photography is evident in the remarkable images he shares, often using his personal time to capture these unique moments. His recent photograph of the Soyuz spacecraft framed by the green aurora exemplifies the unparalleled perspective astronauts have while aboard the ISS. The combination of human-made technology and natural beauty creates a captivating scene that underscores the majesty and intricacy of space exploration.
During a recent event on X Spaces, Dominick spoke about his deep appreciation for the views from the ISS and acknowledged the widespread fascination with the images he shares. His work continues to inspire countless people on Earth, offering a glimpse into the breathtaking and otherworldly environment of space.
