On Thursday, September 26, 2024, the International Space Station captured breathtaking views of Hurricane Helene as it soared over this natural phenomenon. At the time, Helene was moving towards the Gulf Coast of Florida with winds exceeding 120 miles per hour, according to the United States National Hurricane Center.
The video, posted on the official social media accounts of the International Space Station, showcases the vastness and power of the hurricane from an extraordinary vantage point, over 400 kilometers above the Earth. Helene made landfall in Florida as a Category 4 hurricane and has since weakened to a tropical storm. Authorities had issued warnings in coastal areas several days in advance to minimize the impact of the destructive winds, torrential rains, and flooding.
Real-Time Insights from Space
The images captured by the Space Station enable meteorologists to study the cyclone's evolution in real-time from space. This information is crucial for predicting its trajectory and mitigating damage in affected areas.
NOAA’s Critical Data Collection Mission
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) also deployed its WP-3D Orion aircraft, known as "Kermit," to fly through the eye wall of Hurricane Helene. This mission took place on September 26, during a period of rapid intensification before the storm reached the coast. The goal was to gather data that provided scientists with vital information on the hurricane's behavior, enhancing predictions and disaster response measures.