Cuban Media Highlights Stunning Astrophotography Capture of Skydiver Aligned with the Sun
Havana, Cuba – November 26, 2025 – Cubadebate is showcasing a breathtaking image captured by American astrophotographer Andrew McCarthy, depicting skydiver Gabriel brown positioned directly in front of the sun during a daring jump. The photograph, quickly gaining international attention, represents a remarkable feat of planning, precision, and collaboration.
The image’s success underscores a growing intersection between extreme sports and scientific photography, demonstrating the potential for visually stunning results when technical expertise meets adventurous spirit. This achievement highlights the dedication of individuals pushing the boundaries of both disciplines and offers a captivating example of how meticulous calculation can transform a risky endeavor into a work of art. The photograph is already sparking discussion about the challenges and rewards of capturing unique astronomical events.
McCarthy explained the genesis of the project, stating, “My friend Gabriel and I met up to go skydiving, and we came up with the idea right after, as I already had some experience capturing things moving in front of the moon or the sun.” The pair meticulously planned the shot,requiring precise alignment of the sun’s angle,the skydiver’s position,and the telescope’s distance.
“But we weren’t even sure if it was possible,” McCarthy added. Calculations were necessary to ensure Brown could safely jump from over 1,000 meters, deploy his parachute, and land without incident. McCarthy also faced technical hurdles, noting, “There were also challenges with the depth of field, I wasn’t sure if it could really be in focus at the same time as the sun, so we had to take it to a considerable distance.”
The resulting image, dubbed “The Fall of Icarus” by the photographers, is a testament to their dedication and skill. It is indeed currently featured prominently on cubadebate, showcasing the image alongside details of the complex undertaking.
