OK — this is pretty neat stuff. For years Dutch amateur astronomer and writer Ralf Vandebergh has specialized in imaging spacecraft like the International Space Station from the ground with backyard telescopes. This requires careful tracking of exactly the right type and thorough image processing, but the result is that Ralf has imaged not only spacecraft, but also astronauts from the ground — with just a 10-inch backyard telescope!
Check out the accompanying photo, which shows astronaut Steve Bowen spacewalking during STS-133 on March 2, 2011. That’s just an incredible feat!
For much more on Ralf’s amazing imagery, see his
website.
Enjoy!