NASA has released one of the first images captured as part of the Artemis II mission. It shows Earth in stunning blue and white colors.
The photo was taken by the mission commander and also reveals several rare cosmic phenomena:
two auroras
“zodiacal light” — sunlight scattered by interplanetary dust
The Artemis II crew is currently on its way to the Moon. According to the plan, they will orbit the Moon for approximately six hours.
Another important event has been added to the mission — a solar eclipse. At that time, from the crew’s perspective, the Sun will be hidden behind the Moon.
NASA considers this a unique scientific opportunity. Astronauts may observe:
bright flashes from meteorites striking the Moon’s surface
dust particles rising around the Moon
deep space objects, including planets
