How a Navy sailor snapped an iconic Artemis II astronaut photo
Task & Purpose • • science
Key Points:
- Navy photographer August Clawson captured a striking photo of astronaut Christina Koch during the Artemis II crew's Pacific Ocean splashdown, a moment he barely recalls taking.
- The photo, taken during the "Golden Hour" just before sunset, shows Koch in her orange NASA spacesuit bathed in warm light, highlighting a powerful image of reflection and exhaustion.
- Clawson, a mass communication specialist with a passion for portrait photography, has been honing his skills in the Navy, earning the 2024 Department of Defense "Communicator of the Year" award.
- Despite the chaotic environment aboard the USS John P. Murtha recovery ship, Clawson aimed to capture respectful, authentic portraits rather than posed or smiling images.
- The photo quickly gained widespread attention on social media and news outlets, showcasing Clawson's ability to document historic moments with a humanizing perspective.
