Astrophotographer Captures Stunning Image of ISS Transiting the Sun

Portuguese astrophotographer Miguel Claro has achieved a remarkable feat by capturing the International Space Station (ISS) as it transited across the sun. Using a specialized high-speed camera and a solar filter, Claro was able to photograph the ISS against the backdrop of the sun’s detailed surface. He told the whole story of how this photo was made to Space.com.

The photo was taken on June 2, 2024, from the northern coast of Portugal in Figueira da Foz. The entire transit lasted a mere 0.54 seconds, making the capture incredibly challenging. Claro used a high-speed camera capable of shooting over 100 frames per second to document this fleeting event.

In the image, the ISS is seen silhouetted against the sun, with its distinct solar panels and modules clearly visible. The sun’s surface details, including gas jets and sunspots, are also prominently featured, thanks to the solar filter that allows for detailed observation of the sun’s chromosphere.

Claro meticulously prepared for this moment. His expertise in astronomical photography allowed him to capture this rare and breathtaking shot without any image stacking, relying instead on the quality of single frames.