Astronaut Don Pettit‘s Return Highlights Space Photography
WASHINGTON — April 20, 2024 — Veteran NASA astronaut Don Pettit is preparing to return to earth after seven months with the International space Station (ISS). the return, scheduled for Saturday night, is notable not only for Pettit’s journey, but also for his renowned astrophotography skills. Those interested in space exploration and the unique perspectives from orbit shoudl follow along for more details.
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CNN – Veteran NASA astronaut Don Pettit, a four-time space traveler, is scheduled to return to Earth from the International Space Station on Saturday night.The return comes just before Pettit’s 70th birthday on Sunday.
Pettit is not only a seasoned astronaut but also an accomplished inventor and astrophotographer. He holds the patent for the first object invented in space: the “Space Cup” (also known as the “Zero-G cup” or “Hair Drink”). This innovative cup design allows for easier drinking in zero-gravity environments. He is also known for capturing unique and stunning views of the cosmos.
“One of the things I like with my astrophotography is to achieve a composition and a outlook that is different from those focused from the earth,” Pettit said in an interview with astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson. He explained that his goal is to capture the unique perspective of being in orbit, contrasting it with Earth-based astrophotography that often features the Earth’s horizon and atmosphere.
Pettit emphasizes the beauty of Earth from both perspectives. “The earth is incredibly lovely when your feet are firmly planted on the ground,and it is indeed also beautiful from space,” he said. “It’s hard to say what is more beautiful. I think it’s because space gives a unique possibility to focus on the beauty of being in orbit.” He suggests that those who have only lived in orbit might find the view from Earth equally breathtaking.
Pettit often takes his photos from the Cupola, a module on the space station with seven windows offering panoramic views of Earth.
Here are some of the most unforgettable views Pettit has captured during his recent seven-month stay in space:
[Image of the Milky Way]
[Image of Pettit installing camera equipment]
[image of the Milky Way with Zodiac Light and Starlink satellites]
[Image of SpaceX Starship 8 re-entering the atmosphere]
[Image of the Mediterranean Sea]
[Image showing a green hue over the Pacific Ocean]
