NASA remembers the tragic 2001 attack in New York with a photo taken from space. It is a symbol of the memory of that dark day.
At a crucial moment in American history, NASA provided a unique perspective on the tragic events of September 11, 2001. Through the eyes of astronaut Frank Culbertson, who was on the International Space Station (ISS), a moving image of New York wrapped in smoke was obtained from space.
The shocking photo captured by Culbertson shows a plume of smoke rising from the Manhattan area just after two planes crashed into the World Trade Center Twin Towers. This image, taken from the ISS, offers a unique and moving view of the tragedy unfolding on Earth that day.
The only American off the planet At that time, he shared his thoughts and experiences through a letter written from space. There he described how he felt when he saw the magnitude of the terrorist attacks from his vantage point 400 kilometers high.
“The smoke seemed to have a strange bloom at the base of the plume that was flowing south of the city. After reading one of the news articles we just received, I think we were looking around New York shortly after the collapse of the second tower. How horrible…”, explained Frank Culbertson.
His words reflect shock and sadness what he felt when witnessing the devastation from space. Culbertson also shared his reflections on the importance of this event in American and world history.
“It’s horrible to see the smoke rising from the wounds in your own country from such a fantastic point of view. The dichotomy of being on a spaceship dedicated to improving life on Earth and seeing life destroyed by people so stubborn and malicious words shake the psyche, no matter who you are,” he said.
A poignant reminder of the tragedy of 9/11
This image and Culbertson’s words are a poignant reminder of the tragedy of 9/11 and of the unity that was formed in response to these terrible acts. NASA, in its role as an agency dedicated to space exploration and scientific research, was also involved in supporting relief operations on Earth in collaboration with other government agencies.
Culbertson’s photo has become a symbol of the memory of that day and the determination of the United States to overcome adversity. This image, along with the astronaut’s words, continues to remind us of the importance of unity and solidarity in times of crisis.
In dark times in history, science and space exploration offer us a unique perspective that can inspire us to seek a better world and always remember the past so as not to repeat it. Culbertson’s image from the ISS It is a testament to that idea.