Become a NASA Photo Detective!

Help NASA pinpoint stunning Earth photos taken from the International Space Station & earn rewards by analysing astonaut images.

Have you ever dreamed of contributing to space exploration? Now you can – directly from your computer.NASA invites aspiring citizen scientists to become Image Detectives, helping solve a unique orbital mystery:locating where photos taken from the International Space Station (ISS) actually are on Earth.

The BIG Challenge: A Fast-Moving World

ISS astronauts shoot with powerful Nikon bodies – but the Station travels ~8 km/s. By the time a photo is captured, the subject can be hundreds of kilometers behind them. NASA often knows the rough region, but nailing the exact spot is where YOU come in.

How to Become a NASA Photo Detective

1. Complete the training:  Visit the NASA Image Detective site and click “Let’s Get Started!”         
   – The free course certifies you for the tasks ahead.  
2. Analyze your assignments: NASA provides stunning photos plus a general search area on Earth.
3. Play orbital match-maker: Use Google Earth and clues in the image to find the precise location.
4. Submit & get rewarded: Once approved, you’ll earn official credit, grow your contributor profile, and may unlock further rewards.

Good luck – And may the force be with you!

Watch Earth Live from the ISS

While you solve orbital mysteries, keep an eye on our planet in real time:

• ISS Live HD – NASA Cam 1 (Downward view)
• ISS Live HD – NASA Cam 2 (Forward view)
• ISS Live 4K – SEN

Ready for your next space mission?  The International Space Station – the source of the images you are going to analyze

– is entering its final chapter within the next four years. Discover how to watch its last missions and what comes next in our feature: “The ISS is Dying: Watch its Final Missions Live & What’s Next.”