Don Pettit, an astronaut and ace photographer, often combines science and photography during his missions in space. Recently, he captured a unique phenomenon called the “Dzhanibekov effect” using his Nikon cameras aboard the International Space Station (ISS).
The Dzhanibekov effect is a fascinating kinetic phenomenon named after Soviet cosmonaut Vladimir Dzhanibekov, who first observed it back in 1985. It describes how a rigid object with three different moments of inertia can flip its rotational axis without any external force interfering. While this effect has been discussed by physicists for nearly two centuries, it’s much easier to see in the weightlessness of space than on Earth.
Pettit’s recent video shows his Nikon Z9 camera, equipped with a Nikon 14-24mm lens and Speedlite flash, spinning before suddenly flipping 180 degrees, only to flip again after a few moments. This visual demonstration offers a clear illustration of the effect.
In addition to documenting this effect, Pettit collaborated with National Geographic photographer Babak Tafreshi on a project capturing the same subjects from space and Earth. This creative exchange led to stunning contrasts in perspective.
Using innovative tools also adds to Pettit’s arsenal. In his latest trip from September 2024 to April 2025, he utilized a custom star tracker developed by Ted Kinsman from RIT, allowing for breathtaking astrophotography from the ISS.
The Dzhanibekov effect continues to spark interest, especially in educational settings. A survey by the European Space Agency found that about 70% of students expressed increased fascination with physics after watching demonstrations from astronauts like Pettit. Such real-world examples make complex theories feel accessible and entertaining.
For anyone curious about space and science, following Pettit’s journey on social media offers incredible insights and engaging content. He regularly shares updates and fascinating experiments that highlight the wonders of living and working in microgravity.
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