NASA astronaut Jessica Meir filmed a timelapse video of the aurora australis from a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft [1].

The footage provides a rare orbital perspective of the Southern Lights, highlighting the atmospheric dynamics caused by solar activity. These displays are critical for scientists studying how solar flares and coronal mass ejections interact with Earth's magnetic field [3].

Meir recorded the sequence on Friday, June 5, 2026 [1], while the capsule orbited over the southern polar region [2]. The video was released to the public on June 10 [2].

Auroras occur when charged particles from solar flares are guided by the magnetic field into the polar atmosphere. These particles collide with gases to emit the vibrant light seen in the footage [3].

Meir described the specific movement of the lights in this instance as unique compared to previous sightings. "As opposed to the previous aurora I’ve seen, this one danced and snaked its way directly below us, putting on quite a show," Meir said [2].

The footage was captured from the interior of the SpaceX Dragon capsule. The timelapse shows the curtains of light shifting across the South Pole as the spacecraft maintains its orbit [1, 2].

NASA and its partners continue to use such observations to monitor space weather. The interaction between solar wind and the magnetosphere can affect satellite communications, and power grids on the ground [3].

“this one danced and snaked its way directly below us”

The capture of the aurora australis from orbit underscores the ongoing volatility of the sun's current solar cycle. By documenting the 'dancing' movement of these lights, astronauts provide visual data that complements satellite readings of coronal mass ejections, helping researchers better understand the timing and intensity of geomagnetic storms that can disrupt global technology.