The sky on
your birthday.
GRB Fireball Persists
The optical counterpart of Gamma-Ray Burst 970228, first detected in February, is still visible. This image, taken by astronomers on September 5, shows an extended structure that has not changed. The burst, one of the most famous of its time, has faded but not completely disappeared. Astronomers waited patiently for Earth to move in its orbit, away from the Sun's glare, to inspect the location of this historic flash.
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Released on your day
Space pictures released on your month and day in other years, or a few days either side. Each one is sharp enough to print as a poster.
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Released on 17 September 2012 Wide-field view of NGC 4634 and NGC 4633 (ground-based image) See it as a poster -
Released on 17 September 2018 An explosive phoenix See it as a poster -
Released on 17 September 2025 Asian city lights and green fishing boat lights See it as a poster -
Released on 17 September 2018 Knots and bursts See it as a poster -
Released on 17 September 2014 Hurricane Edouard See it as a poster
In tropical astrology, 17 SEP 1997 falls under Virgo (♍). The sign's window runs from 08-23 through 09-22. Virgo is the largest zodiac constellation, holding the heart of the Virgo galaxy cluster. The Sun was crossing this region of the sky on 17 SEP 1997.
Questions about September 17, 1997
What space photo was released on September 17, 1997?
NASA's Astronomy Picture of the Day for September 17, 1997 was "GRB Fireball Persists". It's the card at the top of this page.
What was the Moon's phase on September 17, 1997?
A full moon, about 100% lit.
What day of the week was September 17, 1997?
September 17, 1997 was a Wednesday, day 260 of the 365 days in 1997.
Is it free?
Yes. Seeing, sharing and downloading the card is free, and there's no account to make.