As he neared the end of a six-month mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS), astronaut Don Pettit shared a captivating photograph that could easily grace the walls of an art exhibit.
This stunning image, captured from a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft docked at the ISS, showcases mesmerizing star trails alongside the twinkling lights of cities viewed from approximately 250 miles above the Earth.
Star trail from Crew 9 Dragon vehicle. Thanks to Babak Tafreshi for the image processing. pic.twitter.com/X6w462Wdtz
Throughout his latest mission, Pettit has delighted his followers with a series of breathtaking star trail images, but this particular photograph stands out among his extraordinary collection.
At 69 years old, Pettit is NASA’s oldest active astronaut. Over the course of his four missions, he has honed his skills as a space photographer, regularly sharing his incredible imagery on social media.
A few months back, he took a moment to engage with people on Earth about his passion for photography, which includes everything from star trails to stunning shots of a Crew Dragon spacecraft approaching Earth, vivid views of the Amazon rainforest, and awe-inspiring captures of auroras.
Recently, he also managed to document the dramatic moment when SpaceX’s Starship spacecraft disintegrated during its eighth flight test—making history with this powerful rocket.
“Images from space help tell a story for those on Earth who may never have the chance to go to space,” Pettit expressed when discussing his photography. He noted that while every photograph serves as a unique record of his experiences, “they also illustrate what it means for humanity to venture into the cosmos and explore new frontiers.”
Purchasing Marantz’s latest Horizon or Grand Horizon wireless speakers is sure to spark conversations in your home long before you even power them on. Their eye-catching circular design, complemented by a sturdy marble base, is available in three stunning colors: Midnight Sky, Moon Ray, and Marantz Champagne. These speakers embody a unique blend of art and technology, resembling sculptures rather than mere audio devices, and they’re priced accordingly—$3,500 for the Horizon and $5,500 for the Grand Horizon. While they may appear to be the ideal present for someone with discerning taste, you’ll have to hold off on gift-wrapping them, as they won’t hit the market until January 14, 2025.
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At the heart of both models is the HEOS software, which powers multiroom audio for various devices produced by Denon, Marantz, and Onkyo. The HEOS mobile application allows users to manage all compatible devices conveniently, offering similar functionality to options like Sonos and Wiim. Additionally, you can stream from a multitude of services, including Amazon Music, Deezer, Spotify, and Tidal, plus access your personal music library if stored on a compatible network.
Longtime supporters of Marantz may remember that the Horizon isn’t the brand’s first foray into wireless speakers—this title belongs to the discontinued MS7000 Marantz Consolette from 2013.
These innovative speakers support high-resolution stereo and multichannel audio, accommodating up to 7.1 channels at 24-bit/192kHz, as well as DSD128 (5.6MHz). Marantz has incorporated its proprietary Mirage DSP to offer various sound modifications.
Marantz Grand Horizon driver arrayMarantz
Support for Spotify Connect, Apple AirPlay 2, and Bluetooth is included, along with several physical connection options: each model features a stereo RCA input, a digital optical port, an HDMI eARC port, and a USB-C connector. The unique arrangement of drivers promises a compelling spatial audio experience, with Dolby Audio processing capabilities when connected to a TV through HDMI eARC. Additionally, two Horizons can be paired together for a stereo setup via the HEOS app.
Both speakers incorporate a central subwoofer—the prominent disc at the center—while additional drivers are concealed behind the stylish fabric grille of the outer ring. The primary distinctions between the two models relate to their size, power output, and driver configurations.
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The Horizon measures approximately 15 inches in diameter and is just over 8 inches deep. It is equipped with a “Marantz Rise” GaN FET amplifier delivering 310 watts (with a peak of 745 watts) and includes six “Marantz Gravity” drivers: two 1-inch tweeters, three 2-inch full-range drivers, and a single 6.5-inch subwoofer.
Meanwhile, the Grand Horizon is about 20 inches in diameter and 10 inches deep. It boasts an amplifier that produces 370 watts (with a peak of 860 watts) and features eight drivers, which include three 1-inch tweeters, four 3-inch full-range drivers, and a single 8-inch subwoofer.
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Enhancing the visual appeal of the Horizon is a concealed ring of 100 LEDs. These lights not only indicate the volume level but also react when someone approaches the speaker, thanks to built-in proximity sensors. You can gain greater control over the lighting experience through the Marantz AuraControl application.
If you need more versatility in speaker placement, an optional wall mount is available, or you might consider the Marantz Horizon Tripod, which retails for $700, offering a stylish walnut finish for floor standing.
