The image, captured using a customized camera system and sophisticated star-tracking technology, has rapidly gained popularity on social media.
Milky Way captured from the ISS
Pettit posted the photograph on X, noting that it was part of 1.2 million RAW image files from his recent mission aboard the ISS. The photograph was taken from the Cupola, the space station’s observation module featuring seven panoramic windows that gaze out over Earth and beyond.
How the image was captured
To photograph the Milky Way, Pettit utilized a Nikon Z9 camera paired with a 15 mm Arri Zeiss lens at a T1.8 aperture, allowing ample light to enter the camera’s sensor.
The setup featured a specialized sidereal drive that counteracted the ISS’s orbital motion, enabling distant stars to appear as fixed points in the image.
Pettit shared the photo with the message, “I finally have all 1.2 million raw image files from my latest mission to ISS! Here is a sample of one of my favorite Milky Way photos.”
Many have asked how this photo was made. This is my explanation.
The ISS rotates about its pitch axis as it orbits Earth at 17,000mph to keep its nadir view constant. Because of this long exposure photography turns stars into arced lines.
Sidereal clock drives on Earth match… pic.twitter.com/9DhcPuBbao
— Don Pettit (@astro_Pettit) August 1, 2026
How the custom tracker worked
After receiving numerous inquiries about the photograph’s creation, Pettit explained that the ISS orbits Earth at nearly 17,000 mph while maintaining a constant view of the planet. This motion causes long-exposure images to render stars as arced lines.
To counteract this, a custom camera mount was designed at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT). The mount rotated every 90 minutes, compensating for the ISS’s orbital motion and allowing distant stars to be recorded as fixed points.
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Pettit mentioned that it was a rotational coil spring-powered analogue star tracker, made from aluminum and built entirely without electronics to comply with NASA’s cargo specifications. “After Expedition 72, it was safely returned to Earth and will be displayed at RIT. Photography is essential for sharing the journey to new frontiers with all of Earth’s inhabitants!” he remarked.
Internet reacts
The photograph has garnered over seven million views on X, with users lauding both its aesthetic and the engineering behind it.
One user called it “one of the most historic photographs ever taken by a human,” while another described it as “stunning”.
A third user remarked, “Woah … how does it feel to witness something like that in real time? I can’t even imagine. Thank you for thoroughly documenting the experience for all of us to enjoy. That is incredible.” Another added, “This is the most beautiful space photo I’ve seen in a long time. Thank you.”
