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Undertaker & Chara

21 Years of Amazing Earth Imagery

On April 29, 1999, NASA Earth Observatory started delivering science stories and imagery to the public through the Internet. Today, we turn 21! So much has changed in the past two decades... 

One of the most notable changes is the way we view our home planet. Check out some of the beautiful imagery of our planet over the past 21 years.

2000: Pine Island Glacier

Most people will never see Pine Island Glacier in person. Located near the base of the Antarctic Peninsula—the “thumb” of the continent—the glacier lies more than 2,600 kilometers (1,600 miles) from the tip of South America. That’s shorter than a cross-country flight from New York to Los Angeles, but there are no runways on the glacier and no infrastructure. Only a handful of scientists have ever set foot on its ice.

This animation shows a wide view of Pine Island Glacier and the long-term retreat of its ice front. Images were acquired by the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on our Terra satellite from 2000 to 2019. Notice that there are times when the front appears to stay in the same place or even advance, though the overall trend is toward retreat. Read more.

2002: The Blue Marble

In February 2002, Earth Observatory published this “blue marble” image based on the most detailed collection of true-color imagery of the entire Earth at that time. Using a collection of satellite-based observations, scientists and visualizers stitched together months of observations of the land surface, oceans, sea ice and clouds into a seamless, true-color mosaic of every square kilometer (.386 square mile) of our planet. Most of the information contained in this image came from Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectrometer (MODIS), illustrating the instrument's outstanding capacity to act as an integrated tool for observing a variety of terrestrial, oceanic and atmospheric features of the Earth. Read more.

2009: Tsauchab River Bed

The Tsauchab River is a famous landmark for the people of Namibia and tourists. Yet few people have ever seen the river flowing with water. In December 2009, an astronaut on the International Space Station caught this glimpse of the Tsauchab River bed jutting into the sea of red dunes. It ends in a series of light-colored, silty mud holes on the dry lake floor.

Like several other rivers around the Namib Desert, the Tsauchab brings sediment down from the hinterland toward the coastal lowland. This sediment is then blown from the river beds, and over tens of millions of years it has accumulated as the red dunes of the Namib Sand Sea. Read more. 

2012: Manning Island and Foxe Basin, Canada

Although it may look like a microscope’s view of a thin slice of mineral-speckled rock, this image was actually acquired in space by the Earth Observing-1 satellite in July 2012. It shows a small set of islands and a rich mixture of ice in Foxe Basin, the shallow northern reaches of Hudson Bay.

The small and diverse sizes of the ice floes indicate that they were melting. The darkest colors in the image are open water. Snow-free ice appears gray, while snow-covered ice appears white. The small, dark features on many of the floes are likely melt ponds. Read more.

2013: A Lava Lamp Look at the Atlantic

Stretching from tropical Florida to the doorstep of Europe, this river of water carries a lot of heat, salt, and history. The Gulf Stream is an important part of the global ocean conveyor belt that moves water and heat across the North Atlantic from the equator toward the poles. It is one of the strongest currents on Earth, and one of the most studied.

This image shows a small portion of the Gulf Stream as it appears in infrared imagery. Data for this image was acquired on April 9, 2013, by the Thermal Infrared Sensor (TIRS) on the Landsat 8 satellite. TIRS observes in wavelengths of 10.9 micrometers and 12.0 micrometers. The image above is centered at 33.06° North latitude, 73.86° West longitude, about 500 kilometers (300 miles) east of Charleston, South Carolina. Read more.

2016: Curious Ensemble of Wonderful Features

When John Wesley Powell explored the Colorado River in 1869, he made the first thorough survey of one of the last blank spots on the map. The expedition began in May at Green River, Wyoming, and ended three months later at the confluence of the Colorado and Virgin Rivers in present-day Nevada.

About two months into their journey, the nine men of the expedition found themselves in Glen Canyon. As the men traveled along the serpentine river channel, they encountered what Powell later described in Canyons of Colorado as a “curious ensemble of wonderful features.”

From above, the view of Glen Canyon is equally arresting. In 2016, an astronaut aboard the International Space Station took several photographs that were combined to make a long mosaic. The water has an unnatural shade of blue because of sunglint, an optical phenomenon that occurs when sunlight reflects off the surface of water at the same angle that a camera views it. Click here to see the long mosaic.

2019: Lena Delta Shakes Off Water

For most of the year, the Lena River Delta—a vast wetland fanning out from northeast Siberia into the Arctic Ocean—is either frozen over and barren or thawed out and lush. Only briefly will you see it like this.

After seven months encased in snow and ice, the delta emerges for the short Arctic summer. The transition happens fast. The animation above, composed of images from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on our Aqua satellite, shows the transformation from June 3-10, 2019. Read more.

2020: Making Waves in the Andaman Sea

When tides, currents and gravity move water masses over seafloor features, they can create wave actions within the ocean. Oceanographers began studying these internal waves from ships in the 1960s, and the modern era of satellites has made it possible to see them on a grand scale. The Operational Land Imager (OLI) on Landsat 8 captured these images of the Andaman Sea on November 29, 2019. The reflection of the Sun on the ocean—sunglint—helps make the internal waves visible.

Internal waves form because the ocean is layered. Deep water tends to be colder, denser and saltier, while shallower water is often warmer, lighter and fresher. The differences in density and salinity cause layers of the ocean to behave like different fluids. When tides, currents, gravity and Earth’s rotation move these different water masses over seafloor formations (such as ridges or canyons), they create waves within the sea. Read more.

These images were taken from NASA Earth Observatory! 

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Top Eco-Friendly Destinations to Add to Your Bucket List

Traveling sustainably doesn’t mean compromising on breathtaking experiences. Around the world, stunning destinations are leading the charge in eco-tourism, offering travelers opportunities to explore responsibly while supporting conservation and local communities. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or simply looking for guilt-free luxury, these eco-friendly spots deserve a spot on your bucket list.

1. Costa Rica: A Pioneer in Eco-Tourism

Costa Rica has long been a leader in sustainable tourism, protecting over 25% of its land as national parks and reserves. Known for its lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and diverse wildlife, it’s the perfect place for adventure and relaxation. Visit eco-lodges, join guided wildlife tours, and zipline through the treetops, all while supporting conservation efforts.

2. Bhutan: The Carbon-Negative Kingdom

Bhutan is the only carbon-negative country in the world, prioritizing environmental protection and sustainable development. The country’s strict tourism policy focuses on low-impact, high-value travel. Visitors can explore breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, vibrant monasteries, and rich traditions while contributing to Bhutan’s commitment to preserving its pristine environment.

3. Finland: Europe’s Greenest Destination

Ranked one of the most sustainable destinations in the world, Finland offers eco-conscious travelers pristine lakes, dense forests, and clean air. Opt for a stay in eco-cabins, immerse yourself in the country’s sauna culture, or visit Lapland to witness the magic of the Northern Lights. Finland’s focus on renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure makes it a green traveler’s paradise.

4. New Zealand: Land of Adventure and Conservation

With its breathtaking fjords, mountains, and unique biodiversity, New Zealand is a dream destination for nature lovers. The country is committed to preserving its landscapes and wildlife, offering eco-tourism activities like guided nature walks, whale watching, and stays in eco-friendly accommodations.

5. Kenya: Safaris with a Purpose

Kenya offers unforgettable wildlife experiences while championing conservation. Many safari lodges operate with sustainability at their core, working to protect endangered species and support local communities. From the Maasai Mara to Amboseli, you can experience the beauty of Africa while ensuring your visit contributes to its future.

6. Slovenia: A Hidden Green Gem

This small European country is making big waves in sustainable tourism. With its abundance of green spaces, eco-certified accommodations, and locally sourced cuisine, Slovenia offers a perfect blend of adventure and sustainability. Visit Lake Bled, hike in Triglav National Park, or explore Ljubljana, one of Europe’s greenest capitals.

7. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador: A Haven for Biodiversity

The Galápagos Islands are a treasure trove of unique wildlife and landscapes. Strict visitor regulations ensure that tourism here remains eco-friendly and doesn’t harm the fragile ecosystem. Snorkeling, kayaking, and guided tours let you witness the islands’ wonders while supporting preservation efforts.

8. Iceland: Where Nature Takes the Lead

Iceland’s otherworldly landscapes, from glaciers to geysers, are matched by its commitment to sustainability. Nearly 100% of the country’s energy comes from renewable sources. Visitors can explore geothermal spas, hike on volcanic trails, or watch puffins in their natural habitat, all while supporting Iceland’s eco-friendly initiatives.

9. The Azores, Portugal: An Atlantic Eco-Paradise

This archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean is a haven for sustainable travelers. Known for its dramatic volcanic landscapes and vibrant marine life, the Azores offer eco-conscious accommodations and activities like whale watching, hiking, and geothermal bathing.

10. Palau: A Tiny Nation with Big Goals

This Pacific Island nation is a model for marine conservation. Palau has created the world’s first shark sanctuary and enforces strict eco-tourism policies to protect its coral reefs and marine life. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters, explore WWII relics, or relax on pristine beaches while contributing to a sustainable future.

Why Choose Eco-Friendly Destinations?

Traveling to eco-friendly destinations not only allows you to explore the beauty of our planet but also ensures your adventures have a positive impact. These destinations prioritize the environment, support local communities, and offer experiences that are both memorable and meaningful.