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‘The Fall of Icarus’: Skydiver Silhouetted Against the Sun, Verified by Behind-the-Scenes Footage

McCarthy documents the coordinated hydrogen-alpha shoot to counter claims of AI fakery.

Overview

  • Arizona astrophotographer Andrew McCarthy captured Gabriel C. Brown in freefall precisely aligned in front of the Sun.
  • A three-way call with a paramotor pilot guided real-time positioning, with success coming on the sixth attempt as the jumper crossed sunspots.
  • The published picture is a composite of high-resolution hydrogen-alpha frames that reveal active regions and structure on the solar disk.
  • McCarthy released a video showing the jump and capture sequence, providing direct evidence that the image is a real photograph rather than AI or simple digital trickery.
  • Limited-edition prints are on sale through McCarthy’s shop as the image gains widespread attention across social and news platforms.