From the vast expanse of space, NASA astronaut Matthew Dominick has captured a breathtaking view of Earth that is sure to leave viewers in awe. As he prepares for his return to Earth after a seven-month mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS), Dominick found time to snap an incredible night shot showcasing the vibrant city of Cairo, Egypt, bathed in moonlight.
Dominick’s photograph, shared on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), provides a unique perspective on the Earth’s beauty. From 250 miles above, the image showcases the illuminated cityscape of Cairo, the meandering Nile River, the expansive Nile Delta, and the glistening Mediterranean Sea. The scene is a testament to the power of human ingenuity and the wonder of our planet.
“Moonlight illuminates Cairo and the Mediterranean on a mostly clear night,” Dominick wrote in a message accompanying the photo. “We were up late last night sleep shifting in preparation for undocking and return to Earth in the next few days.” He further added, “Cairo at night is one of my favorite views. I am happy the timing worked out to see it one more time before we depart.”
Dominick’s commitment to capturing the beauty of our planet from space is evident in his meticulous approach to photography. He used a 50mm lens, a 1/10 second shutter speed, and an ISO of 3200 to capture this stunning image. While he didn’t specify the camera body, his previous work suggests that he likely used a Nikon Z9, known for its high-resolution sensor and impressive low-light performance.
Dominick’s latest photograph is just one of many breathtaking images he has shared during his time on the ISS. His keen eye for detail and his ability to capture the unique beauty of our planet from space have earned him a devoted following among space enthusiasts and photography aficionados alike.
Meanwhile, Dominick and his fellow astronauts are making final preparations for their return to Earth. The Crew-8 mission, initially scheduled for an earlier return, has been delayed due to unfavorable weather conditions in the splashdown zone off the coast of Florida. However, NASA reported a slight improvement in the weather forecast, with a targeted undocking from the ISS scheduled for no earlier than 9:05 p.m. ET on Monday, October 21. The earliest splashdown opportunity for the Crew Dragon spacecraft is now set for approximately 12:55 p.m. ET on Tuesday, October 22.
As Dominick and his crew prepare for their return journey, their captivating images serve as a reminder of the wonder and beauty of space exploration. Their mission has not only provided valuable scientific data but also offered glimpses into the majesty of our planet from a perspective few have ever experienced.