What it felt like to get the Space Station Eclipse Transit Shot

Destin, Matt, and Trevor are positioned with cameras ready to capture an International Space Station transit during a solar eclipse.

The team had previously completed an ISS transit video that was enjoyable to create but involved significant tension and planning.

Despite extensive preparation, Destin expresses surprise that the attempt would work, indicating this was a challenging and uncertain endeavor.

• Sunspots on the sun could obstruct the view • Loss of focus ability is a major technical concern • Multiple camera focus checks needed before the transit window

The team has approximately two minutes until the transit occurs, with intense focus on final preparations.

• Team members zoom in to verify sunspot sharpness on the camera monitor • Last-minute focus adjustments are made to ensure clarity • Double-checking video recording status across all cameras

Heart rates are elevated, team members acknowledge the intensity and nervousness of the moment as they approach the critical window.

With 40 seconds remaining, the team confirms all cameras are rolling and makes final adjustments to zoom and framing.

The International Space Station passes in front of the sun during the eclipse, and the team successfully records the event across multiple cameras.

• The transit happens quickly but is visible on the monitors • Team members see the ISS silhouette crossing the sun • Focus appears sharp enough to capture the detail

During and immediately after capture, the team makes zoom and framing adjustments to optimize the footage as it happens.

The team confirms they successfully captured the shot and expresses relief and excitement at the successful documentation.

• Multiple backup copies are made immediately to secure the footage • Data is copied to secondary locations to prevent loss due to past technical problems

Destin is surprised by the depth of emotion felt during the event, having not expected such a strong reaction to the successful capture.

• Matt Whitman runs the YouTube channel Ten Minute Bible Hour • Trevor is involved in photography, rockets, and SpaceX Patreon content • The team is part of a podcast called No Dumb Questions

Destin thanks Matt and Trevor for their collaboration and encourages viewers to support and check out their respective work and podcast.