Matterhorn, Moon, and Meteor
Explanation:
Fans of
planet Earth probably recognize the Matterhorn
in the foreground of this night skyscape.
Famed in
mountaineering
history, the 4,478 meter Alpine
mountain stands next to the totally
eclipsed Moon.
In spite of -22 degree C temperatures, the inspired scene was captured
on the morning of January 21 from the mountains near
Zermatt, Switzerland.
Different exposures record the dim red light reflected
by the Moon fully
immersed in Earth's shadow.
Seen directly above the famous Alpine peak,
but about 600 light-years away, are the stars of the Praesepe
or Beehive star cluster also known as
Messier 44.
An added reward to the cold eclipse vigil,
a bright and colorful
meteor flashed
below the temporarily dimmmed Moon,
just tracing the Matterhorn's north-eastern climbing
route along Hornli ridge.
Authors & editors:
Robert Nemiroff
(MTU) &
Jerry Bonnell
(USRA)
NASA Web Site Statements, Warnings,
and Disclaimers
NASA Official: Jay Norris.
Specific
rights apply.
A service of:
LHEA at
NASA /
GSFC
& Michigan Tech. U.
