Breathtaking footage from the International Space Station offers a rare and awe-inspiring view of Earth as vibrant green auroras ripple across the planet’s surface, revealing the dynamic relationship between the Sun and our atmosphere. Seen from orbit, waves of luminous green light sweep across the darkness of space as charged particles from the solar wind collide with atmospheric gases, guided by Earth’s powerful magnetic field.

The glowing green curtains are auroras formed when energized solar particles strike oxygen atoms at altitudes of roughly 100 to 300 kilometers above the surface. These collisions excite the atoms, causing them to emit light at a wavelength of 557.7 nanometers, producing the aurora’s signature green hue. The footage highlights how Earth’s magnetic field funnels these particles toward the polar regions, creating concentrated bands of auroral activity rather than allowing the radiation to impact the entire planet.

Alongside the auroras, a thin orange band traces the curve of Earth’s horizon. This glow is known as airglow, a constant but faint emission produced by photochemical reactions involving atomic oxygen and hydroxyl radicals in the upper atmosphere. Unlike auroras, airglow does not depend on solar storms or charged particles, instead encircling the planet almost every night as a quiet indicator of atmospheric processes at work.

Together, the green auroras and orange airglow present a striking visual reminder that Earth is not a static body but a living system, shielded and shaped by invisible forces. The imagery underscores the role of Earth’s magnetic field as a protective barrier, deflecting harmful solar radiation while simultaneously creating some of the most beautiful natural light displays observable from space.

Beyond its beauty, the footage provides valuable insight for scientists studying atmospheric dynamics, space weather, and the complex interactions between the Sun and Earth. From the vantage point of the ISS, the planet appears not only protected, but alive—glowing softly against the darkness of space.