NASA astronaut Don Pettit has shared breathtaking images of the 2025 Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, taken from the International Space Station (ISS).

The event, known as the largest gathering of humans on Earth, has already attracted over 10 crore devotees, with the number expected to rise to 45 crore by the festival's conclusion on Maha Shivratri next month.

A Festival Visible from Space

The Maha Kumbh’s grandeur and scale are so immense that it is clearly visible from space. Pettit, currently a member of the ISS Expedition 72 crew, posted the images on X (formerly Twitter), showcasing the illuminated festival site at night.

The dazzling lights of Prayagraj, along with the sprawling festival grounds, have captivated viewers worldwide.

Sustainability and Technology at Maha Kumbh 2025

This year’s Maha Kumbh has been organized with a focus on sustainability and innovation. Environmentally conscious planning has been a priority to manage the massive influx of visitors. The government has enhanced infrastructure and deployed advanced technologies, including AI-powered cameras and surveillance drones, to ensure efficient monitoring and security.

Don Pettit’s Journey on the ISS

Don Pettit, a veteran NASA astronaut, arrived at the ISS on September 11, 2024, aboard the Soyuz MS-26 mission alongside Russian cosmonauts Alexey Ovchinin and Ivan Vagner. Pettit, part of the Expedition 72 crew, is currently engaged in scientific experiments, space station upgrades, and sharing mesmerizing views of Earth from orbit.

Pettit is known for regularly posting stunning images from the ISS, capturing cities, natural phenomena like polar lights, weather patterns, comets, and even the unexpected behavior of objects in microgravity. His image of the Maha Kumbh adds to the growing collection of extraordinary visuals documenting life on Earth from space.

The World’s Largest Religious Gathering

The Maha Kumbh, held every 12 years, is a significant cultural and religious event in India, drawing millions of devotees, saints, and visitors from across the globe. The 2025 festival has further cemented its reputation as a global spectacle, with its scale and organization receiving international recognition.