Earthset and a solar eclipse: Nasa releases first images from Moon fly-by

Earthset and a solar eclipse: Nasa releases first images from Moon fly-by

NASA unveiled the initial images captured by Artemis II crew members during their lunar fly-by. The first photograph depicts an ‘Earthset,’ showcasing the astronauts’ glimpse of Earth as it appears beyond the Moon’s rugged terrain. A second image highlights the stunning solar eclipse, a rare celestial event observed as the Moon obscured the Sun. The agency did not specify which astronaut took the pictures, though the crew is currently on their way back to Earth after the mission.

The Earthset photo draws parallels to the legendary Earthrise image taken by Bill Anders during Apollo 8 in 1968. That historic shot, which captured Earth against the void of space, remains a celebrated symbol of environmental awareness. The Artemis II astronauts’ view of our planet, framed by the Moon’s surface, carries a similar emotional weight, emphasizing Earth’s fragility amid the cosmic backdrop.

The six-hour fly-by included a segment of radio silence as the capsule passed behind the Moon. During this time, the astronauts captured the Earthset and the solar eclipse, moments that underscore the mission’s scientific and visual significance. NASA noted the Earthrise image was taken through the Orion spacecraft window at 18:41 Eastern Daylight Time (2341BST) on Monday. “The dark portion of Earth is experiencing nighttime, while swirling clouds are visible over the Australia and Oceania region,” the agency explained.

In the foreground of the Earthrise image, Ohm crater is depicted with terraced edges and a flat floor disrupted by central peaks. These formations occur in complex craters when the lunar surface, liquefied by impact, rises to create the crater’s structure. For the crew, witnessing the solar eclipse was a standout moment, even on this remarkable journey. Victor Glover described the event as “sci-fi” and “unreal,” capturing the awe of the scene.

“The Sun has gone behind the Moon, and the corona is still visible, bright and creating a halo almost around the entire moon,” he said. “The Earth is so bright out there, and the Moon is just hanging in front of us.”