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Dry river beds, satellite image
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Dry river beds, satellite image
Dry river beds, satellite image. North is at top. The bright blue areas are meandering wadis (dry river beds) that have formed in this desert area due to flooding. Desert areas can go for years without rain, and then be flooded by large storms. The floodwaters briefly carve patterns in the landscape and then evaporate or sink into the soil. The bright blue areas have higher moisture content than the surrounding areas. This area is in eastern Jordan, near the Syrian border. The area shown in this image is around 60 kilometres wide. The image data includes infrared wavelengths, and was obtained on 17 May 2001, using the ASTER sensor on the Terra satellite
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Media ID 6357889
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2000s 2001 Advanced Spaceborne Arid Aster Desert Earth Observation Earth Science From Space Hydrology Infra Red Jordan Land Middle East Physical Geography Reflection Radiometer Riverine Rocky Sandy Satellite Satellite Image Terra Thermal Emission And Jordanian Wadi
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This satellite image captures the intricate beauty of dry river beds in a desert area near the Syrian border in eastern Jordan. The top of the photo represents north, and the bright blue areas depict meandering wadis, or dry river beds that have formed due to occasional flooding. In these arid regions, years can pass without rainfall until sudden large storms transform the landscape into temporary waterways. The floodwaters swiftly carve mesmerizing patterns before either evaporating or seeping into the parched soil. The distinct brightness of these blue areas indicates higher moisture content compared to their surroundings. This 60-kilometer-wide expanse showcases nature's resilience amidst harsh conditions as it adapts to intermittent deluges and prolonged droughts. The photograph was taken on May 17,2001, using infrared wavelengths by ASTER sensor aboard Terra satellite. This remarkable snapshot not only highlights Earth's diverse geography but also emphasizes how hydrology shapes our planet's physical features. It serves as a reminder that even seemingly lifeless deserts possess hidden wonders waiting to be discovered from space through advanced technology like satellites equipped with thermal emission and reflection radiometers. Science Photo Library presents this stunning print capturing an extraordinary moment frozen in time—a testament to both the power of nature and humanity's ability to explore and appreciate its wonders from afar.
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