Sitting in low Earth orbit, the International Space Station gives astronauts aboard some spectacular views, together with this one among Lake Titicaca in Peru.
What’s it?
At 3,200 sq. miles (8,300 sq. kilometers), Lake Titicaca is the most important freshwater lake in South America. Considered round three million years old, the lake is one among only a handful of historical lakes remaining across the globe. Over 25 completely different rivers dump into the lake, feeding into its massive dimension. Historical buildings and artifacts present that people have lived round Lake Titicaca since earlier than colonial instances and proceed to dwell there right now.
The place is it?
Lake Titicaca lies between ranges of the Andes Mountains in a basin that is a part of the Altiplano (high plateau) of the northern Andes in Peru. At 2.36 miles (3.81 km) above sea degree, the lake is the best on this planet.
Why is it wonderful?
This photograph, taken by an astronaut aboard the ISS in October 2024, exhibits a shocking instance of sunglint reflecting from the floor of the waters of Lake Titicaca.
Sunglint is an optical phenomenon that occurs when daylight displays off a physique of water immediately into the digicam, creating silvery vibrant patches, particularly over clean surfaces. Sunglint may also help reveal refined particulars within the water that could be invisible below peculiar lighting, together with any oils or movies created by algae, wind patterns and boat wakes.
Right here, a number of V-shaped patterns present boat wakes, whereas two refined arcs within the high left present inner waves. These options may also help scientists higher research hard-to-access areas of Lake Titicaca, studying extra in regards to the distinctive ecosystems it offers.
Wish to be taught extra?
You may learn extra about finding out Earth from space and monitoring bodies of water like Lake Titicaca.