On June 15, 2025, American astrophotographer Andrew McCarthy captured a unique image of the International Space Station (ISS) transiting the Sun during a solar flare. The photograph, titled "Kardashev Dreams," showcases the ISS silhouetted against the bright solar eruption.
To capture this rare event, McCarthy traveled to the Sonoran Desert on the U.S.-Mexico border, where temperatures reached 54°C (129°F). He used ice-cooled telescopes and specialized equipment to protect his gear from the extreme heat.
The resulting image is a detailed composition combining multiple exposures to capture both the ISS and the solar flare in high resolution. McCarthy described the photograph as "the most detailed solar transit I've ever taken."
Despite the image's dramatic nature, the ISS, orbiting Earth at approximately 400 kilometers, was not in danger during the solar flare. While solar flares can increase radiation levels and affect electronic systems, they generally do not pose an immediate threat to astronauts.
This event highlights the increasing solar activity in Solar Cycle 25, which has shown a rise in the frequency and intensity of solar flares in 2025. These flares can impact radio communications, power grids, and navigation systems, as well as pose risks to satellites and the ISS.
McCarthy's image is not only a technical achievement but also a work of art that captures the dynamic interaction between solar activity and human presence in space. His work continues to inspire astronomers and photographers alike, showcasing the beauty and complexity of our solar system.