Astronomy Picture of the Day · December 16, 2025

Andromeda and Sprites over Australia

The Astronomy Picture of the Day for December 16, 2025 is “Andromeda and Sprites over Australia,” an image. The picture is copyrighted by its creator (Image Credit & Copyright: JJ Rao). The original explanation runs about 144 words.

A dark landscape is back lit by a thunderstorm in the distance. A lone tree is visible near the center. Above the tree are two sky icons: the Andromeda Galaxy on the left and bright red sprites on the right. Please see the explanation for m — Credit: Image Credit & Copyright: JJ Rao Copyrighted Shown from science.nasa.gov. Not hosted by OpenOrbit.

From the explanation

“What’s happening over that tree? Two very different things.”

— APOD editors, December 16, 2025

Read the full explanation on science.nasa.gov

At a glance

Date: December 16, 2025
Type: Image
Credit: Credit: Image Credit & Copyright: JJ Rao
Copyright: Copyrighted by the credited creator. Ask the copyright holder before reusing it.
Explanation length: About 144 words