NASA astronaut Don Pettit, known for his innovative spirit, has captured an exceptional deep space photograph from the International Space Station (ISS) using a device he created himself.
Pettit, currently on his third mission aboard the ISS, has a reputation for combining scientific expertise with creative problem-solving. His latest achievement highlights these skills through an extraordinary photo showcasing numerous stars and several galaxies. Notably, this image distinguishes itself with a unique clarity, achieved through a homemade star tracker that Pettit engineered.
Typically, long-exposure photography from the ISS results in star trails due to the station’s rapid orbit around Earth at speeds of approximately 17,500 miles per hour. However, Pettit’s innovation—a star tracker that compensates for this movement—enables him to capture still images of stars. This tool adjusts the camera’s positioning to match the ISS’s trajectory, allowing for longer exposure times without the motion blur that would normally occur.
Pettit described his invention on the social media platform Reddit, noting the tracker rotates with a 90-minute period to match the ISS’s pitch rate. This adaptation is crucial for achieving clear images of deep space, far surpassing the traditional half-second exposure limit. Longer exposures bring fainter stars into view, offering a breathtaking glimpse into the universe.
Don Pettit’s inventiveness isn’t confined to photography. In 2008, he patented the zero-gravity coffee cup, demonstrating his ability to address unique challenges faced in space environments. The cup uses surface tension to mimic the function of an Earth-based cup, adding a touch of normalcy to life aboard the ISS. Pettit’s commitment to improving the everyday experience in space underscores his broader contribution to space exploration.
Don Pettit’s ability to innovate underlines his significant contributions to both science and everyday life in space. His homemade star tracker has provided a remarkable look at the universe from the ISS, enhancing our understanding of space.
