Ask any astronaut about their experience aboard the International Space Station (ISS), and they will likely mention the breathtaking views that unfold from a vantage point over 250 miles above Earth. The scenery visible from the ISS encompasses a wide range of extraordinary sightings, including sweeping vistas of various terrains, mesmerizing sunrises and sunsets occurring every 90 minutes, dramatic thunderstorms illuminated from above, and the celestial wonders of our solar system, such as the moon and the sweeping expanse of the Milky Way.

One of the most captivating natural phenomena that astronauts frequently witness is the aurora borealis, a spectacular light display created by the interaction of charged solar winds with the Earth’s magnetic field. Recently, NASA astronaut Don Pettit, who has been a crew member on the ISS since September of the previous year, shared two remarkable video clips that showcase the latest auroral displays as the space station traverses the planet.

These stunning aurora videos are not the first to emerge from the ISS, but Pettit’s latest footage stands out due to its striking visual effects. The first clip presents the aurora’s lush green hues, which Pettit aptly described as “vaporous turbulence,” creating a dramatic and almost ethereal dynamic on screen. This unique perspective provides viewers with a glimpse into the awe-inspiring beauty of our planet’s atmosphere.

On April 5, 2025, Pettit tweeted the mesmerizing footage, stating, “Green vaporous turbulence; tonight’s show of aurora from @Space_Station,” which has since captivated audiences on social media.

The second video offers a broader view that captures the curvature of Earth along with the stunning aurora. In this clip, Pettit notes that the ISS was passing between Australia and Antarctica at the time of the observation. In a cheeky twist, he mentions that fellow photographer and astronaut @astro_jannicke, who is currently on the private FRAM2 space mission, will soon have an even more spectacular view from their polar orbit.

Don Pettit has consistently dazzled those on Earth with his exceptional photography, sharing a steady stream of images and videos from the ISS. His portfolio includes a particularly striking shot of the rivers in the Amazon Basin, which, captured at night, he poetically likened to “flowing silver snakes.” This image showcases not only Pettit’s artistic eye but also highlights the beauty of our planet’s natural landscapes from an extraordinary vantage point.

Additionally, Pettit captured a remarkable image of Blue Origin’s inaugural launch of the New Glenn rocket, showcasing the vehicle’s second stage as it streaked across the frame, accompanied by a backdrop of mesmerizing star trails. His work reflects a legacy of astronauts who have utilized their time in space to document and share the beauty of Earth from above, including fellow astronaut Thomas Pesquet, known for his emphasis on capturing stunning imagery of our planet.