Can you see the atmosphere with you eyes or only through photos? (In space)

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SUMMARY

In the discussion, participants clarify that while certain galaxies are visible to the naked eye, such as the Milky Way, Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC), Small Magellanic Cloud (SMC), Andromeda Galaxy (M32), and occasionally the Triangulum Galaxy (M33), most galaxies require telescopes or long-exposure photography for visibility. The visibility of these galaxies is not influenced by Earth's atmosphere. Additionally, the blue halo of Earth's atmosphere can be observed from space, particularly from the International Space Station (ISS) at altitudes between 402–424 km, due to the scattering of blue light by atmospheric gases.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic astronomy concepts, including galaxies and their visibility.
  • Familiarity with atmospheric science, particularly light scattering.
  • Knowledge of photography techniques, especially long-exposure photography.
  • Awareness of space observation platforms, such as the International Space Station (ISS).
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the visibility of galaxies with the naked eye and the factors affecting it.
  • Learn about light scattering in Earth's atmosphere and its effects on color perception.
  • Explore advanced photography techniques for capturing celestial bodies, including long-exposure methods.
  • Investigate the role of space observation platforms like the ISS in studying Earth's atmosphere.
USEFUL FOR

Astronomy enthusiasts, photographers interested in astrophotography, educators in atmospheric science, and anyone curious about the visibility of celestial objects from Earth and space.

Tyrion101
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Among my favorite space photos are those in which you can see the Earth's, or other planets atmosphere, and I've always wondered if this was something like you can't see a galaxy with the naked eye, unless you use really long exposure times in your photos?
 
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Tyrion101 said:
and I've always wondered if this was something like you can't see a galaxy with the naked eye, unless you use really long exposure times in your photos?

seeing or not seeing other galaxies isn't dependent on our atmosphere
There are 4 or 5 galaxies that we can see with our naked eyes

1) our own Milky Way Galaxy
2) LMC = Large Magellanic Cloud
3) SMC = Small Magellanic Cloud
4) M32 Andromeda Galaxy
and some people with awesome eyesight in a dark location can see
5) M33 The Triangulum Galaxy

all the rest are very faint and need telescopes or very large camera telephoto lenses to see or photograph

Dave
 
Tyrion101 said:
Among my favorite space photos are those in which you can see the Earth's, or other planets atmosphere,

still considering the best way to answer this part...

OK try this I found on google ...

Blue light is scattered more than other wavelengths by the gases in the atmosphere, giving Earth a blue halo when seen from space onboard ISS at a height of 402–424 km.

Top_of_Atmosphere.jpg
how's that grab you ?
and you don't need a camera to see it ... even at around 30 - 40,000 ft in an airliner you start seeing that :smile:

cheers
Dave
 
Last edited:
davenn said:
seeing or not seeing other galaxies isn't dependent on our atmosphere
There are 4 or 5 galaxies that we can see with our naked eyes

1) our own Milky Way Galaxy
2) LMC = Large Magellanic Cloud
3) SMC = Small Magellanic Cloud
4) M32 Andromeda Galaxy
and some people with awesome eyesight in a dark location can see
5) M33 The Triangulum Galaxy

all the rest are very faint and need telescopes or very large camera telephoto lenses to see or photograph

Dave
I was referring to the non obvious galaxies, but I take your point
 
Tyrion101 said:
I was referring to the non obvious galaxies, but I take your point
I covered both scenarios :wink:
 
Maybe one day I'll make it there :). Probably not though.
 
Tyrion101 said:
Among my favorite space photos are those in which you can see the Earth's, or other planets atmosphere, and I've always wondered if this was something like you can't see a galaxy with the naked eye, unless you use really long exposure times in your photos?
Yes of course you can see atmospheres. When you set at sky you can see blue sky, which is atmosphere. It can be seen because particles or atoms on atmosphere refract sun light which let's is see atmosphere :rolleyes::)
 

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