Nasa has released the first photos from the Artemis II mission's Moon fly-by. These images offer a unique view of Earth and a rare solar eclipse. The astronauts are now on their way back to Earth after their journey.
Views from the Moon
One photo shows an "Earthset," with our planet peeking over the Moon's cratered surface. Nasa noted this image was taken through the Orion spacecraft window. It captures Earth's night side and swirling clouds over Australia and Oceania. In the foreground, the Ohm crater is visible, showing its terraced edges and central peaks. These peaks form when the lunar surface briefly liquefies during an impact.
Another striking image captures a solar eclipse. The Moon completely blocked out the Sun, creating a spectacular sight for the astronauts. The crew took these photos during a six-hour fly-by. This included a period of radio silence when their capsule was behind the Moon.
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A third image, titled "Ready for a close up," shows the detailed, cratered surface of the Moon. Nasa did not specify which astronaut took the photographs.
