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South America at night, satellite image
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South America at night, satellite image
South America at night, satellite image. City lights (yellow) show areas of dense population, particularly in North America (top left) and South Americas coasts. The centre of South America is mostly uninhabited, as is Antarctica (bottom right). This image was produced by combining data from the Defense Meteorological Satellite Program (DMSP) and NOas POES satellites
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Media ID 1705079
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the stunning view of South America at night, as captured by satellite imagery. The city lights, depicted in a warm yellow hue, reveal areas of high population density across the continent. Notably, North America and the coastlines of South America shine brightly with urbanization and technological advancements. However, what truly stands out is the vast expanse of darkness that engulfs the center of South America and Antarctica. These regions remain mostly uninhabited, emphasizing their untouched beauty and remoteness. In fact, Antarctica appears as a dark silhouette in contrast to the illuminated world around it. The image was meticulously created by combining data from two satellites: Defense Meteorological Satellite Program (DMSP) and NOAA's Polar-orbiting Operational Environmental Satellites (POES). This amalgamation allowed for an accurate representation of Earth's surface at night. As we marvel at this breathtaking sight from space, it prompts us to contemplate various aspects such as geography, demography, environmental impact, and light pollution caused by artificial lighting. It serves as a reminder of humanity's distribution across continents and our ability to shape landscapes through urbanization. Science Photo Library has once again provided us with an awe-inspiring glimpse into our planet's intricate tapestry seen from above – a testament to both human ingenuity and Earth’s natural wonders.
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