Amid an air raid alert in Kyiv, Ukrainian amateur astrophotographer Ildar Ibatullin captured a rare and breathtaking image of the Moon—an image that quickly gained international attention and was published by the New York Mirror.
The photograph reveals the Moon in soft, mineral-hued tones, encircled by a rainbow-colored halo and gently illuminated by a diffuse light effect known as ashen light—also called Earthshine. This phenomenon occurs when sunlight reflects off Earth’s surface and subtly lights up the Moon’s dark side, creating a mystical and serene visual effect.
Ibatullin’s photo, taken under pressure and uncertainty, has been widely shared online and praised by both professional astronomers and space enthusiasts for its rare beauty and emotional resonance.
“I’ve gotten used to taking pictures during air raids—it’s become almost routine,” Ibatullin said in an interview, underscoring the resilience and creative spirit of Ukrainians amid ongoing conflict.
The image has sparked conversations in scientific communities about the intersection of art, astronomy, and life during wartime. Its spread across global media reflects not just a visual achievement but a moment of quiet human brilliance captured in chaos.
📸: ibatullin_ildar
