NASA astronaut Zena Cardman delivered a breathtaking glimpse of Earth’s beauty after sharing a time-lapse video of the aurora borealis from the International Space Station. Filmed during the SpaceX Crew-11 mission, the footage shows vibrant green waves of light stretching across the planet’s horizon, illuminating the atmosphere in a spectacular display rarely seen from Earth.

Posting the video to X, Cardman wrote, “I've still never seen the aurora from below, but up here, it's a frequent show. Last week's was especially good.” Her perspective highlights the surreal advantage astronauts have aboard the ISS, orbiting roughly 250 miles above Earth and witnessing natural wonders from a vantage point few will ever experience.

The aurora borealis—commonly known as the Northern Lights—occurs when charged particles from the Sun collide with Earth’s magnetic field and funnel into the atmosphere near the poles, producing brilliant curtains of light. Scientists note that auroras have become more frequent and intense this year as the Sun approaches the peak of its 11-year solar activity cycle, known as the Solar Maximum.

For researchers, each display offers valuable insight into space weather and the Sun’s impact on Earth’s magnetic environment. For viewers on the ground—and in orbit—it serves as a humbling reminder of our planet’s resilience, fragility, and unmatched natural beauty. Cardman’s footage quickly spread online, inspiring millions who may never see the aurora in person but can witness it through the eyes of those living and working in space.