From record-breaking heatwaves to pandemic-related events, Earth-observing satellites captured some compelling moments on our planet in 2021. A NASA Earth-curated image list showcases some of the beautiful and complex events that occurred on our planet in the past year, and demonstrates how Earth-observing technologies and missions provide valuable information to scientists, government agencies, and people around the world.
(And… there’s a lot of Landsat!)
Banner Image Caption: Some of the highest diurnal tides in the world—nearly 14 meters (46 feet)—have been recorded in the Sea of Okhotsk. In the Russian Far East, narrow bays funnel and amplify the incoming tides, making it a prime location for tidal power generation. The transition from smooth, laminar flow to mixed, turbulent flow is visible in this natural-color image of the western Sea of Okhotsk. The image of the Shantar Islands and Uda Bay was acquired on Sept. 24, 2021, by Landsat 8.
In recognition of Earth Day, NASA is highlighting two interns advancing the well-being of our planet through their work with the Landsat team.
Get to know Emil Cherrington, a scientist and Landsat data user.
Get to know Nikki Tulley, an Assistant Research Scientist at NASA’s Ames Research Center and Landsat data user.
Satellites have helped show that strong tidal activity may facilitate water-induced fracturing, or hydrofracturing, where land ice transitions to floating ice shelf and cause the meltwater lake to drain quickly, often in as little as several days.
In recognition of Earth Day, NASA is highlighting two interns advancing the well-being of our planet through their work with the Landsat team.
Get to know Emil Cherrington, a scientist and Landsat data user.
NASA Official: Jeffrey G. Masek
Webmaster: Michael P. Taylor
Curators: Laura Rocchio
