Answer: An astronaut viewing Russia at night might make the following observations:
1. City Lights: The astronaut would observe the bright city lights illuminating the landscape. Major cities like Moscow would be particularly noticeable due to their extensive light networks.
2. Activity Indicators: The astronaut might notice changes in light patterns that indicate human activity. For example, a sudden increase in lights in certain areas could suggest significant movement or activity.
3. Dark Areas: Conversely, the astronaut could observe areas where lights have dimmed or gone out, possibly indicating a decrease in activity or a strategic response to certain events.