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ISS Sunrise: Japan's Astronaut Shares Cosmic New Year
4 Jan
Summary
- Astronaut Kimiya Yui shared ISS views of New Year's sunrise.
- He captured stunning images of the Moon, aurora, and Mount Fuji.
- Yui expressed excitement about future Japanese lunar exploration.

As the world welcomed 2026, Japanese astronaut Kimiya Yui provided a unique vantage point from the International Space Station. He initiated the year by sharing a time-lapse video of the ISS's first sunrise, transitioning from darkness to a brilliant spectacle against the Earth's atmospheric glow. Yui also captured a detailed photograph of the waxing gibbous Moon, prompting reflections on Japan's potential future on the lunar surface.
Yui's orbital perspective offered stunning views of Earth's diverse landscapes, including a time-lapse over Hokkaido and a particularly vibrant aurora borealis that illuminated Japan. He also shared a serene nighttime image of Mount Fuji, highlighting its distinct charm. These transmissions from orbit underscore the enduring beauty of our planet and inspire anticipation for humanity's continued journey into space.
The astronaut's observations from 400 kilometers above the Earth emphasize the profound allure of space exploration. Yui's commitment to sharing these moments, from celestial events to familiar landmarks, serves as a powerful reminder of the Blue Planet's captivating spectacle. His dispatches ignite public interest in future space endeavors and the possibility of Japanese astronauts making history on the Moon.




