Two NASA astronauts aboard the International Space Station have shared their insights on celestial spectacles outside Earth. While eclipses captivate many, they argue that witnessing the northern and southern lights from space is unmatched. Jessica Meir and Jack Hathaway spoke to The Associated Press regarding their recent experiences.
The astronauts missed full visibility of last week’s solar eclipse due to the position of the space station, but they still enjoyed a partial eclipse. They anticipate viewing next week’s lunar eclipse with excitement. Jack Hathaway expressed optimism, saying, “We’re hoping for the best. It should be pretty awesome.”
Jessica Meir, who commands the space station, described auroras as the most impressive cosmic displays. With the sun emerging from a busy period, auroras have appeared more vivid. Meir recounted observing an intense blast from the sun which created a remarkable green aurora directly beneath the station, resembling a snake. She emphasized the unique sight of the green light reflecting off the station’s exterior.
Aside from space phenomena, Meir enjoys culinary activities in orbit, often wearing a space-themed apron. Recently, she and crewmate Anil Menon engaged in a cooking session named “Chez ISS,” sampling station-grown greens. Menon, newly arrived, intends to continue culinary shows onboard.
Meir’s creativity also shines through music, as she performed “The Stars and Stripes Forever” on a piccolo for the Boston Pops, recording her part in space. Her attire featured a scarf and stylish bell bottoms, contrasting with the formal dress worn during her previous station visit that included an all-female spacewalk.
Though Hathaway may not share the same musical or culinary interests, he finds plenty of activities to occupy his time, such as weekend karaoke using the station’s musical instruments. Both astronauts, Meir, a marine biologist, and Hathaway, a Navy captain, await return to Earth next month via SpaceX, as new crew members arrive.
The current space station crew comprises three Americans, three Russians, and one French astronaut.
The Associated Press acknowledges support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Department of Science Education and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation for its Health and Science coverage, while solely handling content responsibility.
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