This article features ten incredible photos of Earth taken from space, showcasing the stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes and ecosystems of our planet. From the iconic “Blue Marble” image captured by Apollo 17 to the breathtaking Northern Lights photographed by European Space Agency astronaut Alexander Gerst, these photos offer a unique perspective on the planet we call home. The article also includes images of devastating storms like Hurricane Katrina and Typhoon Haiyan, as well as the Amazon Rainforest and the Sahara Desert. An awe-inspiring glimpse into the wonders of the world, these photos serve as a reminder of the importance of protecting and preserving our planet for future generations.
1. Blue Marble
One of the most iconic photos of Earth captured from space is the “Blue Marble” image. It was taken by the crew of Apollo 17 in 1972, during their journey to the Moon. The picture shows our planet from a distance of about 28,000 miles, and it showcases the stunning beauty of Earth’s blue oceans, white clouds, and green landmasses.
2. Hurricane Katrina
In 2005, Hurricane Katrina wreaked havoc on the US Gulf Coast, causing widespread devastation and loss of life. However, from space, the storm looked otherworldly and surreal. This photo, taken by NASA’s Terra satellite, shows the massive spiral of clouds and rain that was Hurricane Katrina as it approached the Gulf Coast.
3. Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system, and it is home to an incredible variety of marine life. This stunning photo, captured by NASA astronaut Scott Kelly during his year-long mission on the International Space Station, shows the brilliant blue waters and coral formations of the Great Barrier Reef.
4. Aurora Borealis
The Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights, is one of the most breathtaking natural phenomena on Earth. This photo, taken by European Space Agency astronaut Alexander Gerst, shows the stunning green and purple lights of the Aurora Borealis as they dance over Earth’s atmosphere.
5. Mount Everest
Mount Everest is the tallest mountain on Earth, and it is a popular destination for adventurous climbers. However, from space, it looks like a tiny, jagged peak amidst the vast expanse of Earth’s landscape. This photo, taken by NASA’s Terra satellite, shows the stunning beauty of Mount Everest from above.
6. Sahara Desert
The Sahara Desert is the world’s largest hot desert, and it stretches across much of northern Africa. This photo, taken by NASA’s Aqua satellite, shows the incredible scale of the Sahara from space. The reddish-brown hues of the desert sand contrast with the deep blue of the Mediterranean Sea and the green of the Nile Delta.
7. Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is one of America’s most iconic landmarks, and it is a popular destination for tourists from around the world. This photo, taken by NASA’s Landsat 8 satellite, shows the stunning beauty of the Grand Canyon from space. The colorful rock formations and winding river make for a breathtaking sight.
8. Typhoon Haiyan
Typhoon Haiyan was one of the strongest storms ever recorded, and it caused widespread destruction in the Philippines in 2013. This photo, taken by NASA’s Aqua satellite, shows the massive storm as it approaches the Philippines. The swirling clouds and intense winds are a stark reminder of the power of nature.
9. Amazon Rainforest
The Amazon Rainforest is the world’s largest tropical rainforest, and it is home to an incredible variety of plant and animal life. This photo, taken by NASA’s Terra satellite, shows the green expanse of the Amazon from space. The dense forest canopy and winding rivers are a testament to the beauty and complexity of this vital ecosystem.
10. City Lights
This photo, taken by NASA astronaut Scott Kelly, shows the stunning beauty of Earth’s cities at night. The bright lights of cities like New York, London, and Tokyo stand out against the dark backdrop of the night sky. This image is a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of human civilization.