Spectacular Images and Video of India From the International Space Station

Pictures and footage of India taken from space show the country by night and day as seen from the International Space Station, including a spectacular lightning storm.

Massive lightning storm over #India. A majestic performance that inspires awe and respect. #SpaceVine https://t.co/yrMpOV2J1D

— Terry Virts (@AstroTerry) May 9, 2015

The images were taken by Terry Virts, the commander of the current project, Expedition 43, at the space station and tweeted from his verified account.

#India sparkles from #Delhi and #Ahmedabad all the way to #Chennai. #SpaceVine https://t.co/2zYaQbyf1o

— Terry Virts (@AstroTerry) May 6, 2015

A one-year joint mission between space agencies in the United States, Russia and Europe, began on Mar. 11, 2015 and is in its final days. Astronauts are expected to return to Earth on Wednesday.

The six-member crew have been conducting astrophysics research, physical science investigations and technology demonstrations, but no space walks.

Day flight over #India, with the Ganges drifting by on the left. #spacevine https://t.co/aA3JNuORQb

— Terry Virts (@AstroTerry) May 8, 2015

Two of the crew, Scott Kelly and Mikhail Korneinko, have spent the entire year in space and have undergone medical studies to help further scientific advancements on Earth. Other astronauts were rotated in at the end of Expedition 42 in December.