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Japan at night, satellite image
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Japan at night, satellite image
Japan at night. Black marble satellite image of Japan at night. More densely populated areas are brighter. Lights from ships at sea are also shown. Light levels in much of the north of Japan are still reduced compared to levels before the earthquake and tsunami of 2011. Data acquired by the day-night band of the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) on board the NASA-NOa Suomi National Polar-orbiting Partnership (NPP) satellite, over nine days in April 2012 and 13 days in October 2012
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Media ID 9221605
© NASA EARTH OBSERVATORY/NOAA NGDC/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
2012 Black Marble Cities City Composite Image Continent Dark Day Night Band Earth Observation Electricity Energy Use Flat Projection From Space Habitation Illuminate Illumination Japan Land Light Light Pollution Lights Night Night Time Population Density Rural Satellite Satellite Image Ships Suomi Npp Urban Viirs
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases Japan at night, revealing a mesmerizing satellite image captured by NASA-NOa Suomi National Polar-orbiting Partnership (NPP) satellite. The black marble effect beautifully highlights the varying degrees of illumination across the country. As expected, densely populated areas glow brighter, reflecting the bustling urban landscapes that define modern Japan. However, this image also serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating earthquake and tsunami that struck in 2011. In comparison to pre-disaster levels, light levels in northern Japan remain reduced even during nighttime. This somber contrast adds depth to the photograph and symbolizes both resilience and recovery. The composite image was meticulously created using data acquired over nine days in April 2012 and thirteen days in October 2012 by the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS). It effectively captures not only human habitation but also lights from ships navigating through Japanese waters at night. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this photograph sheds light on various aspects of life on Earth's largest continent - Asia. From energy use and population density to light pollution and urbanization trends, it offers valuable insights into our evolving world. As we gaze upon this stunning snapshot taken from space, we are reminded of how interconnected our planet is while marveling at humanity's ability to illuminate even the darkest corners with electricity and innovation.
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