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Apr 12, 2025View from the cupola of the International Space Station

Pictured here is the view from the cupola of the International Space Station, showing the vast South Pacific Ocean. The station was designed between 1984 and 1993. By the late 1980s, construction of its components was underway across the United States, Canada, Japan and Europe, with Russia joining later.Desktop Version

May 26, 2024Methow Valley, North Cascades, Washington, USA

If you"re looking for meadows blanketed with vibrant beds of wildflowers, the Methow Valley in the North Cascade Mountains, Washington, USA is the place for you. Lupines, with their characteristic spiky blooms in purple, blue and white, and balsamroot, with its large, golden-yellow flowers, create a picturesque contrast with the rugged mountain backdrop. These flowers also play crucial roles in the valley"s ecosystem. Lupines are nitrogen-fixing plants; they help improve soil fertility by converting atmospheric nitrogen into a form that can be used by neighbouring plants. Balsamroot, on the other hand, attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, which helps in plant reproduction and, in turn, contributes to the biodiversity of the region. Whether you"re a seasoned botanist or nature enthusiast, the wildflowers of the Methow Valley will surely leave a lasting impression of the enchanting wilderness.Desktop Version

Sep 8, 2024Abbey of Saint-Martin-du-Canigou

Looking for a timeless getaway? The Abbey of Saint-Martin du Canigou opens its doors to you! Nestled in the western foothills of the Canigou massif in the Pyrénées-Orientales, this is an eleventh-century Romanesque marvel. The abbey has two churches built in the first Romanesque style: the lower church, dedicated to St. Mary, and the upper church, dedicated to St. Martin. This historic structure is catalogued in the Base Mérimée, an architectural heritage database managed by the French Ministry of Culture. The original appearance of the cloister is now hard to envision due to extensive restorations carried out between 1900 and 1920. Originally, the cloister had two levels: the lower level, constructed in the early 11th century, featured vaulted galleries with semicircular arches and was free of ornamentation. Today, only three heavily restored galleries remain, missing much of their original character.Desktop Version

Jan 13, 2025Cottage and Tŵr Mawr lighthouse, Ynys Llanddwyn, Wales, United Kingdom

Tŵr Mawr lighthouse, seen in today"s image, isn"t just a striking white tower on Ynys Llanddwyn in Wales, United Kingdom—it"s got stories to tell. Built in 1873, this windmill-shaped beacon was designed to guide sailors through the tricky Menai Strait. Though it has been decomissioned, it remains a popular destination for visitors drawn to its rugged charm. Stading at 10 metres tall, Tŵr Mawr served alongside its smaller counterpart Tŵr Bach. Consider it an unsung hero of the 19th-century Welsh maritime life. As for Ynys Llanddwyn, it is not your average tidal island. The area is steeped in history—especially the legend of St. Dwynwen, the Welsh saint of love. People once visited the island seeking her blessings. You"ll also find old pilot cottages and remnants of a life-saving station, all pointing to the island"s long-standing link to the sea.Desktop Version

Aug 10, 2024Joshua Tree National Park, California, USA

California"s Joshua Tree National Park, located where the Mojave and Colorado deserts meet, has been home to various cultures for thousands of years. Its earliest known residents were people from the Pinto culture, who lived here from 8000 to 4000 BCE. Centuries later, this land was inhabited by the native Cahuilla, Serrano and Chemehuevi peoples. The park"s namesake, the Joshua tree, grows in a landscape covering 3,216 square kilometres. Despite their name, they are not really trees but rather a kind of succulent. Native to the southwest US and northern Mexico, they can grow up to 12 metres tall. Whether it"s hiking through Hidden Valley, visiting the Cholla Cactus Garden or marvelling at Skull Rock, this national park has a lot to offer. By night, it becomes a stargazer"s paradise, as seen in today"s image. Whether you seek adventure or a moment of tranquillity, Joshua Tree awaits with open skies.Desktop Version

May 8, 2024Château dIf, Marseille, France

Imagine standing at the edge of the glistening Mediterranean Sea and gazing at the distant outline of Château d"If in France, stirring memories of adventure and intrigue immortalised in Alexandre Dumas", "The Count of Monte Cristo." This legendary fortress, dating back to the 16th century, stands proudly as a testament to its Renaissance origins, serving as both a bastion of defence and a somber prison. It was commissioned by King François I and is perched on a rugged island in the Frioul Archipelago, just off the coast of Marseille. Today, the captivating Château d’If is one of Marseille"s many attractions, where the past seamlessly intertwines with contemporary culture.Desktop Version

Dec 5, 2024Tufa formation on Mono Lake, California, United States

Shaped by the slow passage of time, tufa—a type of porous limestone—emerges as one of nature"s most spectacular formations. While these towers can be found in many places, today"s image showcases them at Mono Lake in Mono County, California, United States. These structures develop when calcium-rich fresh water, flowing into the lake from several creeks and streams, mixes with the lake"s alkaline water. Over centuries, this interaction caused calcium carbonate to build up, forming tufa spires above the lake"s surface. To preserve the tufa towers, the Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve was established in 1981 by the California State Legislature.Desktop Version

Mar 16, 2025A kingfisher perched on a branch

Don"t be fooled by its tropical look, this bird has a wide range and adapts to various climates—meet the kingfisher. With over 100 species spread across the globe, kingfishers are found in a variety of habitats, from dense forests to coastal regions. Most species, like the common kingfisher, prefer freshwater environments across Europe, Asia and Africa, while others, such as the belted kingfisher, are found in North and South America. These birds are instantly recognisable by their vibrant plumage, often featuring a striking mix of blues, greens and oranges.Desktop Version

Sep 21, 2023Inside the Nobel Peace Centre, Oslo, Norway

Deep within the bustling city of Oslo in Norway stands the Nobel Peace Centre, highlighting the triumphs of Nobel Peace Prize laureates and sharing Alfred Nobel"s legacy, the creator of the prize. It stands as a testament to the promotion of peace and the recognition of those who have contributed significantly to global harmony. By showcasing inspiring exhibits and insightful conversations, the centre sheds light on the ways humanity has been impacted by these remarkable individuals. Art, multimedia installations and a multitude of thought-provoking exhibits here also reflect the importance of dialogue, diplomacy and cooperation in resolving conflicts and building a better world.Desktop Version

Dec 20, 2024Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, Lapland, Finland

Nestled in Rovaniemi, Finland, and pictured in today"s image, Santa Claus Village is a magical year-round destination. Situated right on the Arctic Circle, this village offers unique experiences, like crossing the Arctic Circle line. Right at the heart of Finnish Lapland, Rovaniemi is the capital of the region. Known for its winter-wonderland landscapes of snowy forests and the magical northern lights, Rovaniemi offers a unique blend of natural beauty and festive spirit. From snowy forests to festive encounters, Rovaniemi invites visitors to experience its enchantment year-round. Whether you"re on Team Christmas or Team Grinch, there"s no way you won"t be amazed by Rovaniemi"s charm.Desktop Version

Jun 25, 2025St. Michaels Church Tower on Glastonbury Tor, Glastonbury, Somerset, England

Glastonbury Tor, pictured here, is a hill crowned by the 14th-century St Michael"s Church Tower—a Grade I listed building. The Tor is steeped in myth and legend, from ties to King Arthur"s Avalon to ancient spiritual lore. Sometimes, when the air and ground temperatures are just right, the Tor looks like it"s floating above the mist—a trick of the light called a Fata Morgana. The name comes from Morgan le Fay, a sorceress in Arthurian legends. The Tor stands in the heart of the Summerland Meadows, which are part of the Somerset Levels. It rises to an elevation of 158 metres and is clearly visible from far away, making it a striking landmark. Although often described as an island, the Tor actually sits at the western tip of a peninsula, surrounded on three sides by the River Brue.Desktop Version

Aug 4, 2024Impala and red-billed oxpecker, South Africa

Picture an impala grazing peacefully, its sleek, tan coat blending almost seamlessly with the landscape. As it moves gracefully, it is not alone. Perched atop its back, a small bird with a striking red bill and sharp claws – the red-billed oxpecker – is working diligently. This duo, though vastly different in size, shares a symbiotic relationship that benefits both in remarkable ways. The oxpecker has an insatiable appetite for ticks and other parasites that cling to the impala"s skin. For the oxpecker, these pesky parasites are a delectable feast, and the impala finds sweet relief from the bothersome pests. When alarmed, the bird makes a distinctive hissing sound, which alerts the impala of impending danger, reminding us of the dynamic balance that sustains the beauty and diversity of life.Desktop Version

Sep 18, 2024Gujō Hachiman Castle

In Japan"s Gifu Prefecture, Gujō Hachiman Castle stands majestically on Hachiman Mountain. Originally constructed in 1559, this castle has witnessed centuries of Japanese history, including the rise and fall of powerful clans. It was torn down during the tumultuous Meiji Restoration—the period that marked the return of imperial power in the country— but was rebuilt in 1933. The castle seen in today"s image is a unique wooden reconstruction, a rarity among Japan"s often concrete-rebuilt castles. This five-story structure, which includes a museum, offers a glimpse into feudal Japan while providing stunning views of the valley below. In addition to the castle, the city of Gujō is also famous for hosting the Gujō Odori, one of Japan"s oldest dance festivals. Held annually from mid-July to early September, the festival sees locals and tourists alike dancing through the night in the castle town, preserving a tradition that dates back more than 400 years.Desktop Version

Mar 20, 2025Daffodils

Today"s image features the narcissus, commonly known as daffodil or jonquil. These blooms typically come in shades of white and yellow, though garden varieties can also display hues of orange or pink, with petals and coronas that may either match or contrast beautifully. Known since ancient times for their botanical and medicinal properties, narcissi were officially classified by Linnaeus in Species Plantarum (1753). They naturally thrive in meadows and woodlands across southern Europe and North Africa, with their greatest variety found in the Western Mediterranean, particularly on the Iberian Peninsula.Desktop Version

Jul 13, 2024Fairy chimneys and cave dwellings in Cappadocia, Türkiye

Today, we"re all about granite, limestone and slate. There are three types of rock: igneous are formed from solidified magma and lava; sedimentary rocks are layers of sedimentary particles such as sand; and metamorphic rocks are the result of heat and pressure on other kinds of rock.Desktop Version

Sep 14, 2024Rapa Nui National Park, Easter Island, Chile

Welcome to Rapa Nui, also known as Easter Island, Chile—one of the world"s most remote and enchanting paradises. Famous for its iconic moai statues, this stunning island is a treasure trove of breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Experts are divided on the timeline of the Polynesians" arrival, though many researchers suggest that it occurred around the 8th century. Take in the mesmerising sunrise featured in today"s image and explore the striking volcanic craters and lush, grassy plains where the imposing statues stand. The World Heritage property of Easter Island spans more than 6,880 hectares, including four nearby islets.Desktop Version

Feb 25, 2025Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah, United States

A breathtaking maze of sandstone formations and awe-inspiring views awaits you at Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah, United States. People have lived in this area for at least 10,000 years, including the Anasazi, Pueblo and Paiute Peoples. The hoodoos—tall, thin spires of rock formed by erosion—in the park inspired Paiute mythology: they believed them to be the Legend People turned to stone by the trickster Coyote. The first European Americans arrived in the area in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, and some eventually settled there in the 1850s. Bryce Canyon was named after Ebenezer Bryce, who had a homestead nearby. These days, the park is famous for its hoodoos. Every year, over 2 million visitors come to marvel at these geological formations. In fact, Bryce Canyon National Park has the highest concentration of hoodoos anywhere on Earth.Desktop Version

Aug 29, 2024Castellfollit de la Roca, Catalonia, Spain

Perched on the edge of a basalt cliff, a town peers at the river running below. Today"s image takes us to Castellfollit de la Roca in the Catalonia region of northeastern Spain. This town isn"t for the faint-hearted: there"s a 49-metre drop down to the Toronell and Fluvia Rivers, which converge at the base of the cliff. Many of the buildings, which are made of the same basalt that the town stands on, seem to teeter on the edge of the precipice. Pictured at the end of the crag is the 13th-century church of Sant Salvador.Desktop Version

Feb 12, 2025Marine iguanas, Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

Marine iguanas, seen in today"s image, are fascinating creatures found exclusively on the Galápagos Islands in Ecuador. They weigh around 1.5 kilograms and can grow up to 1.5 metres in length. These reptiles are the only lizards in the world that forage in the sea, diving to graze on algae growing on submerged rocks. Researchers believe that both Galápagos land iguanas and marine iguanas evolved from a common ancestor that likely rafted from Central or South America. They"ve adapted in remarkable ways, from flattened tails for swimming to salt glands that allow them to expel seawater by sneezing.Desktop Version

Jan 9, 2025Sossusvlei sand dunes, Namib desert, Namibia

Picture a sea of shifting sand dunes glowing orange in the sunrise, stretching as far as the eye can see. Welcome to the Namib desert, spanning thousands of kilometres across Namibia. Estimated to be 55 million years old, it is believed to be the oldest desert in the world. It also boasts some of the tallest sand dunes on Earth, including the famous "Big Daddy," which towers over 1,066 feet; Dune 7, the highest dune in Namibia at more than 380 metres; and Dune 45, which, at roughly 170 metres, is a favourite among photographers.Desktop Version

Jun 3, 2024Bicycles in Copenhagen, Denmark

Bicycles are the best! An environmentally friendly form of transportation that is fun, good for your health, affordable, simple and durable. Once you learn to ride, you"ll never forget how to wheel around. Karl von Drais, a German inventor, is credited with developing the first two-wheeler, the "swiftwalker," in 1817. The machine certainly needed some further thinking, since the wooden frame and wheels didn"t have pedals. Pedals attached to the front wheel were first introduced in the early 1860s in Paris, and the name velocipede was soon replaced by bicycle. The modern versions of bikes were developed in the late 1800s, but the materials used for them are still constantly evolving to make the ride easier and more secure. So, hop on a bike to find your crew!Desktop Version

Apr 28, 2024El Capitan, Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas, USA

Let us take you to Guadalupe Mountains National Park in western Texas, USA. The park, officially established in 1972, covers nearly 350 square kilometres today. Here, the Guadalupe Mountains rise over the salt dunes of the Chihuahuan Desert. At 2,667 metres, the highest point of the mountain range—and of Texas—is the Guadalupe Peak. Another outstanding landmark, often used as a waymark for travellers, is the 2464-metre-high El Capitan—not to be confused with the about 914-metre El Capitan in California—limestone cliff, seen in today"s image.Desktop Version

May 10, 2025Castildetierra in the Bardenas Reales, Navarre, Spain

In the heart of the Bardenas Reales of Navarre, a unique semi-desert landscape in Spain, rises Castildetierra, the most iconic rock formation in the area. Its silhouette, reminiscent of a natural tower eroded by wind and water, is a symbol of this territory declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO.Desktop Version

Jul 23, 2024Methoni Castle, Messinia, Greece

Perched on a rocky headland is Methoni Castle, a symbol of medieval might situated on the shores of the Ionian Sea in southern Greece. The fortress is in Methoni, a village in the Messinia region. Built by the Venetians in the early 13th century, this castle was a key trading post and a defensive bastion, protecting the southwestern coastline from invaders. Its Bourtzi tower, an extension of the fortress standing on a small islet, was once connected to the main castle by a stone bridge.Desktop Version

Aug 30, 2024Whale shark

Whale sharks have been around for more than 240 million years, but the first specimen was discovered off the coast of South Africa in the 1820s. As the world"s largest fish, these gentle giants can grow up to 12 metres, with one reaching a record 18.8 metres. Found in tropical oceans around the world, these filter feeders glide through the water, mouth wide open, straining plankton and small fish. Each pattern on their dotted, starry skin is as unique as a human fingerprint. Sadly, the International Union for Conservation of Nature lists whale sharks as endangered due to overfishing, habitat loss and climate change. Amid adversity, there"s hope, like in Cenderawasih Bay in Indonesia, a whale shark oasis that"s pictured here. Here, these titans dine on the generosity of fishermen who feed them baitfish for luck, reflecting a unique bond between man and marine life.Desktop Version

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