Astronauts aboard the International Space Station photographed a faint green airglow over Earth in late October while passing about 260 miles (418 km) above Texas. Airglow is produced when atoms and molecules in the upper atmosphere release energy after excitation by ultraviolet solar radiation or cosmic rays. The green hue typically comes from excited atomic oxygen; other colors come from different species. Scientists use airglow observations to study atmospheric waves, space-weather effects, and upper-atmosphere dynamics.
ISS Crew Captures Earth’s Faint Green Airglow — Space Photo of the Day
02:09 AM, 12/10/2025
Some of the most striking views of our planet come from space. In late October, astronauts aboard the International Space Station photographed Earth bathed in a subtle green glow — a phenomenon called airglow — while passing roughly 260 miles (418 kilometers) above Texas.
What Is Airglow?
Airglow is a faint, continuous emission from Earth's upper atmosphere produced when atoms and molecules release energy after being excited by ultraviolet sunlight or energetic particles such as cosmic rays. Unlike auroras, which are brighter and tied to geomagnetic activity, airglow forms a global layer that is present both day and night and is most easily seen from orbit.
Why Green?
The green color commonly seen in airglow is primarily caused by excited atomic oxygen emitting light near 557.7 nanometers. Other colors appear when different atoms or molecules (for example, sodium or hydroxyl) emit at their characteristic wavelengths. Identifying these emissions helps scientists determine the composition and behavior of the upper atmosphere.
Scientific Value
Beyond its visual appeal, airglow is a valuable diagnostic tool. Continuous observations from spacecraft and ground instruments help researchers track atmospheric waves, disturbances, and the effects of space weather driven by the Sun. These data improve models of upper-atmosphere dynamics and contribute to better predictions of how the atmosphere responds to changing solar and geomagnetic conditions.
Image context: The photograph was taken from low Earth orbit as the ISS passed about 260 miles (418 kilometers) above Texas.
Airglow is faint but globally persistent, offering scientists a window into processes that influence satellite drag, radio propagation, and the coupling between Earth's lower and upper atmosphere.
For readers who want to learn more, resources are available about the International Space Station and the physical processes behind airglow.
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